Krunal Pandya playfully taunts Dinesh Karthik after RCB coach forgets his role i – Krunal Pandya Playfully Taunts Dinesh Karthik in Hilarious RCB Dressing Room Video
Laughter and Banter in the RCB Camp After Historic Victory
The dressing room of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) was a scene of absolute jubilation following their thumping victory over the Gujarat Titans (GT) in the IPL 2026 Qualifier 1. While the players celebrated securing their spot in their second consecutive IPL final, a hilarious off-field moment stole the spotlight. All-rounder Krunal Pandya playfully confronted mentor and batting coach Dinesh Karthik and young batter Devdutt Padikkal for omitting his name during the post-match appreciation speeches.
RCB had just pulled off a clinical performance, dismantling the Gujarat Titans to edge closer to defending their IPL crown. However, in the midst of celebrating the team’s standout performers, Padikkal and Karthik almost overlooked Krunal’s invaluable contributions with both bat and ball. What followed was a light-hearted exchange that left the entire squad, including talismanic batter Virat Kohli, in splits.
“Mera Naam Bhool Gaya Bhai”: Krunal’s Playful Intervention
As the team gathered in the dressing room to reflect on their massive win, Devdutt Padikkal took the floor to speak about the importance of staying focused for the upcoming final. Just as Padikkal was about to wrap up his speech, Krunal Pandya, known for his candid and humorous personality, decided to speak up. Realizing his efforts had gone unmentioned, Krunal interrupted with a smile, saying, “Mera naam bhool gaya bhai” (You forgot my name, brother).
The quick-witted Dinesh Karthik immediately jumped in to rectify the hilarious oversight. Responding to Krunal’s playful call-out, Karthik said, “Krunal, good job,” before pausing to address the room again. “Well done, Krunal. Good effort on the bat,” Karthik added, sparking a wave of roaring laughter across the room. Virat Kohli, sitting nearby, could not control his laughter as the entire squad enjoyed the friendly banter, highlighting the fantastic camaraderie within the RCB squad.
A Record-Breaking Night on the Field
The light-hearted dressing room vibes were well-earned, given the sheer dominance RCB displayed on the pitch. Facing the Gujarat Titans in a high-stakes Qualifier 1, the defending champions put on an absolute masterclass. RCB posted a staggering 254/5 on the scoreboard, registering the highest-ever total in the history of the IPL playoffs.
The charge was led by their young skipper, Rajat Patidar, who played a sensational captain’s knock. Patidar absolutely decimated the GT bowling attack, smashing a breathtaking 93 runs off just 33 deliveries. His brilliant innings took the game completely away from the opposition and set a mammoth target that put GT under immense pressure from the very first ball.
In reply, Gujarat Titans struggled to keep up with the required run rate and were eventually bowled out for a modest 162. The clinical bowling performance ensured a comprehensive and comfortable victory for Bengaluru, booking their ticket straight to the final at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
Krunal Pandya’s Crucial All-Round Show
While Rajat Patidar’s explosive knock and Virat Kohli’s presence drew the loudest cheers, Krunal Pandya’s role was instrumental in securing the victory. Krunal played a vital cameo with the bat to help maintain the scoring tempo in the middle overs and then returned to deliver a highly effective spell with the ball, picking up two crucial wickets to derail GT’s chase.
It was this crucial all-round display that Krunal playfully demanded recognition for, reminding everyone that champion teams are built on the back of such unsung, impactful performances.
Dinesh Karthik Praises Team’s Intent and Leadership
Addressing the team after the match, coach Dinesh Karthik was full of praise for the clinical nature of the victory. He commended the top order for setting the tone early in the innings.
“The intent from the boys right from the start was outstanding. It started with Venky, Virat, and Dev. As a collective, we maintained the tempo throughout,” Karthik said. “In big games, sometimes teams take the back foot under pressure. But we made sure we kept pushing forward.”
Karthik also paid tribute to Rajat Patidar’s leadership and batting brilliance. “Rajat’s innings was incredible. He led from the front in a pressure game and completely took the bowlers apart,” he added.
Furthermore, Karthik credited Virat Kohli for setting the benchmark with his intense energy on the field. “Virat spoke before the game about making sure our body language stayed strong, and I think it was as good as it has been in the last several weeks. We had the attitude to get them out, and honestly, we almost sealed the game in the power play itself.”
Eyes on the Big Prize: Back-to-Back Titles?
With their spot in the final sealed, RCB are now just one step away from securing their second consecutive IPL title, following their historic maiden triumph in 2025. The Gujarat Titans, meanwhile, will have to dust themselves off and prepare for Qualifier 2, where they will face the winner of the Eliminator for another shot at reaching the final.
Karthik urged his players to enjoy the moment but stay focused on the ultimate prize. “In four days’ time, we have a big game, and I’m sure all of you will be up for it. But let’s make sure we have a lot of fun in the next couple of days. And when we hit the road, when we reach Ahmedabad, we’ll focus. But for now, very well done, boys. We played like champions, and we can make it happen on May 31st.”
