After IPL 2026 rift rumours, Krunal Pandya sets record straight on relationship with brother Hardik

The Pandya brothers have won five IPL titles each. Krunal won his latest in IPL 2026 as RCB successfully defended their title.

Updated on: Jun 4, 2026, 13:37:37 IST

Written by Neelav Chakravarti

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Krunal Pandya opened up on his special bond with younger brother Hardik Pandya, revealing how their cricket conversations and shared journey helped them grow as players over the years. The Pandya brothers are among Indian and world cricket's most recognisable sibling duos, having represented India together and also sharing a dressing room in the IPL.

Hardik Pandya and Krunal Pandya during a match. (REUTERS)

Although Hardik grabs more headlines for his explosive all-round performances for India and his IPL captaincy, Krunal feels their relationship has always been cemented by helping each other improve as players.

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During IPL 2026, rumours surfaced that Krunal and Hardik were no longer close. IT started when MI hosted RCB at the Wankhede Stadium. Both players seemed reserved around each other, unlike in the past, they greeted each other with warmth. During the game, Krunal tried his bouncer against Hardik, and the MI skipper seemed surprised. Then, when Jacob Duffy and Romario Shepherd combined to dismiss Hardik, Krunal celebrated with joy.

‘It has always been a good conversation, a very healthy conversation about cricket’: Krunal Pandya

Speaking to the Times of India, Krunal reflected on the discussions they regularly have about matches and how it has also been beneficial for their careers. "Obviously, we have played together," Krunal said.

"We have always discussed cricket in terms of tactical, technical stuff which always helps. It has always been a good conversation, a very healthy conversation about cricket and how we can get better."

Both brothers have won five IPL titles each. Krunal won his latest in IPL 2026 as RCB successfully defended their title. He has won two trophies with RCB and three with MI. Meanwhile, Hardik has clinched four titles with MI and one with GT (as skipper).

"When you have your brother also playing the same sport, it always helps each other," he said.

Reflecting on the family's collective success, Krunal pointed to the impressive trophy haul. "And, I mean, 10 trophies in the Pandya household is not a bad number to have. God’s been kind," he added.

The comment offered a glimpse of the pride Krunal takes in what his family has accomplished through cricket. While their careers have followed different trajectories at times, Krunal's comments make it clear that the foundation of their success remains unchanged: a shared love of cricket, a commitment to helping each other, and honest conversations about the game.

After winning the title in Ahmedabad, Krunal said, "There’s no doubt about it, every IPL trophy is special. It’s like having kids, right? You can’t pick. Similar with IPL trophies because everything is so hard-earned. I’m so glad and grateful that in 11 years, to have five trophies, it’s pretty special for me."

Praising RCB's auction strategy last year, he added, "The way they prepared before the auction also last year and the way they set the team, right? The balance of it. Sometimes half of the battle is won in the auction. I guess they did a pretty good job. And then eventually, it was on us to go out and deliver. And yeah, glad that we were able to have the hold on the trophy back-to-back."

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Neelav Chakravarti
Neelav Chakravarti has been part of the digital sports team at Hindustan Times since 2022, where he covers a wide range of disciplines, including chess, cricket, football, and Olympic sports. Working in a fast-paced digital newsroom, he regularly handles live blogs, breaking updates, and trending stories, combining speed with clarity to keep readers informed in real time. Chess remains both a professional beat and a personal passion for Neelav, and he closely tracks major international tournaments, player narratives, and emerging talents. He is particularly fascinated by the patience, calculation, and strategic depth the game demands, often exploring the psychological side of competition in his writing. Beyond sports journalism, Neelav has a deep interest in visual storytelling and filmmaking, actively participating in film festivals and engaging with independent cinema. He is especially drawn to films that capture the subtleties of everyday life and human relationships, appreciating storytelling that balances realism with emotional depth. This creative interest complements his approach to sports coverage, where he enjoys highlighting the human stories behind performances and results. A history enthusiast by academic training, Neelav holds a bachelor’s degree in the subject and maintains a sustained interest in ancient and medieval Indian history, particularly in cultural and social transitions across eras. His curiosity about the past often shapes his perspective on contemporary narratives and long-form storytelling. When he isn’t tracking scores or developing storylines, Neelav enjoys spending time over the chessboard, relaxing with his cats, or listening to the Empire podcast by Anita Anand and William Dalrymple. He also enjoys reading long-form sports writing that explores the emotional and cultural layers of sport, while maintaining a quiet routine that balances reading, reflection, and occasional time with friends.Read More

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