IPL 2026 [WATCH]: Krunal Pandya’s over the top celebrations on Hardik Pandya’s dismissal during MI vs RCB clash

The Wankhede Stadium turned into a theatre of high-octane drama on April 12, 2026, as the 20th match of IPL 2026 saw a legendary rivalry renewed. In a high-scoring thriller, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) faced off against the Mumbai Indians (MI) in a contest defined by towering sixes, a massive 240-run total, and a family rivalry that set social media ablaze. While the scoreboard favoured the visitors, the defining moment of the night wasn’t just a boundary, but the raw, unbridled emotion displayed between two of India’s most famous cricketing brothers.

Krunal Pandya’s animated reaction steals the show after Hardik Pandya’s wicket in MI vs RCB

In a league built on intensity, the sight of Krunal Pandya celebrating his brother Hardik’s dismissal was the ultimate IPL moment. Chasing a daunting target of 241, Mumbai Indians’ captain Hardik Pandya was the last major hope for the home side. Hardik was looking dangerous, striking a brisk 40 off just 22 deliveries, decorated with 3 fours and 6 massive sixes.

However, the momentum shifted in the 15th over. Although Jacob Duffy was the bowler who officially claimed the wicket—Hardik catching a thick edge to Romario Shepherd—it was Krunal’s reaction that went viral. Krunal, donning the RCB red, let out a roar of triumph that echoed through the stadium. As Hardik trudged back to the pavilion with MI reeling at 145/4, Krunal was seen pumping his fists and engaging in an over-the-top animated celebration.

Cricket fans are used to the brothers’ camaraderie, but on this night, Krunal proved that on the field, there are no siblings, only competitors. His economical spell of 1/26 across four overs was the backbone of RCB’s defence, and his exuberant reaction to Hardik’s exit underscored the high stakes of this marquee clash.

Bhaivalry was at it's peak, emotions running high 🔥#MIvRCB | [Mumbai Indians, Rohit, Kohli, Tilak, Rajat Patidar] pic.twitter.com/CTEtAgcNiB — Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) April 12, 2026

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RCB edge past MI in the marquee clash of IPL 2026

The match was a certified run-fest, starting with a masterclass from RCB’s opening duo. Phil Salt, eventually named Player of the Match, played a blistering knock of 78 from 36 balls, while the evergreen Virat Kohli supported him with a solid 50. The middle-order fireworks were provided by Rajat Patidar, who smashed a 20-ball 53, propelling RCB to a massive 240/4 in their 20 overs. MI’s bowling struggled under the assault, with Shardul Thakur conceding 32 runs in just 2 overs.

Mumbai’s chase began with a setback as Rohit Sharma was forced to retire hurt after a quick 19. Despite a late-innings surge from Sherfane Rutherford, who remained unbeaten on 71 off 31 balls, and Suryakumar Yadav’s 33, the target proved too steep. MI finished at 222/5, falling short by 18 runs.

Ultimately, RCB’s disciplined bowling in the death overs, led by Krunal’s tight lines and Suyash Sharma’s two wickets, ensured that the Bengaluru franchise climbed to number 3 on the points table, leaving Mumbai to reflect on what might have been.

Also WATCH: IPL 2026: Kareena Kapoor watches MI vs RCB match at Wankhede with family; brief exchange with staff caught on camera