DC vs RCB This Day Last Year: Krunal Pandya’s Match-Winning Knock Sank DC at Arun Jaitley Stadium

The last time Delhi Capitals (DC) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) faced each other at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, it was Krunal Pandya who stole the spotlight with a match-winning all-round performance in IPL 2025.

RCB defeated DC by six wickets on April 27, 2025, successfully chasing down 163 with nine balls to spare. The victory proved crucial in the context of the season, as it pushed Royal Challengers Bengaluru to the top of the points table and strengthened their playoff push.

With the two teams set to meet again at the same venue in IPL 2026, that result remains an important reference point heading into the upcoming clash.

Krunal Pandya Anchors RCB Chase with Match-Winning 73*

The defining moment of the match came during Royal Challengers Bengaluru's run chase, when Krunal Pandya delivered one of his most impactful IPL innings.

Coming in under pressure after early wickets, Krunal steadied the innings and remained unbeaten on 73 off 47 balls. His knock was built on calculated stroke play, clever rotation of strike, and timely boundary hitting.

He also stitched a crucial 119-run partnership with Virat Kohli, which turned the game decisively in RCB's favour after a shaky start.

Krunal's all-round contribution extended beyond batting, as he also picked up a wicket and conceded just 28 runs with the ball. His performance earned him the Player of the Match award and highlighted his ability to influence matches in multiple phases.

Virat Kohli Provides Stability in the Middle Overs

While Krunal Pandya finished the game, Virat Kohli played an equally important supporting role during the chase.

Kohli scored a composed 51 runs, anchoring the innings and ensuring that RCB did not lose further wickets after the early collapse. His partnership with Krunal provided the stability required to rebuild the innings and shift momentum back towards Bengaluru.

The pair's calm approach ensured RCB remained ahead of the required run rate despite the early setbacks.

Delhi Capitals Post 162 but Fail to Defend

Earlier in the match, Delhi Capitals posted a total of 162/8 in their allotted 20 overs. KL Rahul top-scored with 41 runs, while Tristan Stubbs added a quick 34 to provide late momentum.

Despite a competitive total, Delhi struggled to apply sustained pressure during the second innings.

RCB's bowling attack, led by Bhuvneshwar Kumar, delivered disciplined spells to restrict the scoring rate during crucial phases. Bhuvneshwar finished with three wickets, making him the standout performer with the ball.

However, Delhi's inability to capitalize on early breakthroughs ultimately proved costly.

Tim David Finishes the Game in Style

Although Krunal Pandya anchored the chase, Tim David delivered the finishing touch in emphatic fashion.

The Australian power-hitter scored quick runs in the closing overs, smashing boundaries to wrap up the chase in 18.3 overs. His aggressive finish ensured RCB crossed the target comfortably with nine balls remaining.

That late flourish underlined RCB's depth in finishing roles - a factor that continues to define their batting strength.

• Match Summary: DC vs RCB, IPL 2025
• Result: Royal Challengers Bengaluru won by 6 wickets
• Venue: Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi
• Delhi Capitals: 162/8 (20 overs)
• Royal Challengers Bengaluru: 165/4 (18.3 overs)
• Player of the Match: Krunal Pandya (73* and 1/28)

Top Performers:

Delhi Capitals

• KL Rahul - 41
• Tristan Stubbs - 34

Royal Challengers Bengaluru

• Krunal Pandya - 73*
• Virat Kohli - 51
• Bhuvneshwar Kumar - 3 wickets

Why This Match Was Significant for RCB

The win held major importance for Royal Challengers Bengaluru during IPL 2025.

With this victory, RCB climbed to the top of the points table with 14 points and also recorded their sixth consecutive away win of the season - a new franchise record.

That consistency away from home became a key part of their campaign momentum and demonstrated the team's ability to handle pressure situations.

What This Means Ahead of DC vs RCB IPL 2026

As the teams prepare to meet again at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in IPL 2026, memories of Krunal Pandya's match-winning performance remain fresh.

Delhi Capitals will be eager to avoid a repeat of last season's result, especially after failing to defend totals at the same venue earlier this year. Meanwhile, Royal Challengers Bengaluru will look to draw confidence from their successful chase in the previous encounter.

With both teams featuring strong batting lineups and the Delhi pitch expected to favour stroke play, another closely fought contest could be on the cards - much like the thriller witnessed in IPL 2025.