Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) secured a thrilling last-ball two-wicket victory over Mumbai Indians in the IPL 2026, with veteran pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar emerging as the unlikely hero.
After claiming four key wickets with the ball, Bhuvneshwar stunned the crowd by smashing a crucial six in the tense final overs of the chase. RCB needed nine runs off the last three deliveries when Bhuvneshwar launched Raj Angad Bawa over point for a maximum, completely shifting the momentum in Bengaluru’s favor.
The six was a rare feat, marking the first IPL six Bhuvneshwar had hit since 2016 against Rising Pune Supergiants—a gap of nearly a decade.
Upon receiving the Player of the Match award, Bhuvneshwar admitted that the six meant more to him than his wickets. “That six for sure, because I’ve bowled many times. I’ve taken a few wickets before as well. But yeah, six is the thing I’ve enjoyed the most,” he said.
The 36-year-old also shared his thoughts on maintaining consistency at the highest level. “Honestly, motivation is a very overrated word for me… But the thing which keeps me going is the discipline,” he explained, thanking his personal trainers and physios for helping him stay fit.
Krunal Pandya played a vital supporting role, scoring a fighting 73 off 46 balls on a challenging pitch. RCB captain Rajat Patidar praised both players after the match. “I think… especially KP (Krunal Pandya). I think he’s the man who’s done it for the team,” Patidar said.
On Bhuvneshwar’s bowling, Patidar added, “I think the way he controlled the ball… it’s very difficult to play him.” The victory lifted RCB to the top of the IPL standings, while Mumbai Indians remained near the bottom of the table.
