“Miles Ahead”: Ex-BCCI Selector claims Krunal Pandya offers more than Axar Patel – Kris Srikkanth Backs Krunal Pandya Over Axar Patel for India T20I Recall
A Resurgent Performance Sparks Debate
The landscape of Indian T20 cricket is perpetually evolving, and the latest catalyst for discussion comes from none other than former Chief Selector Kris Srikkanth. Following a dominant display by Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the first Qualifier of IPL 2026, Srikkanth has publicly championed the cause of Krunal Pandya, suggesting that the all-rounder is currently performing at a level that puts him miles ahead of Axar Patel in the shortest format of the game.
Krunal Pandya’s latest heroics against the Gujarat Titans—contributing 43 runs with the bat and picking up 2 crucial wickets—have served as the perfect platform for this bold recommendation. Pandya, who last donned the Indian jersey in 2021, has shown a level of maturity and utility that has clearly impressed the veteran selector.
The RCB Dominance at the Qualifier
The Qualifier match was a masterclass in aggressive batting from RCB. Despite the Gujarat Titans choosing to field first, the decision backfired spectacularly. While Virat Kohli and Devdutt Padikkal provided a blistering start with a 72-run partnership in just six overs, it was the middle-order stability provided by Krunal Pandya and the explosive finishing of Rajat Patidar that truly broke the game open.
Patidar, who remained unbeaten on 93 off just 33 balls, benefited from a partnership of 95 with Pandya. Together, they steered RCB to a record-breaking total of 254. The sheer intent shown by the RCB lineup to ‘hammer’ the bowling regardless of the situation has become a hallmark of their 2026 campaign, leaving opposing captains searching for answers.
Why Srikkanth Favors Pandya
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Srikkanth was unequivocal in his assessment of the current Indian selection dilemma. “Krunal Pandya is the real catalyst for RCB with his all-around abilities. He deserves the Indian cap again. He played long back, but they dropped him. This is the right time to give him a chance again,” Srikkanth stated.
The argument rests on consistency. According to Srikkanth, if one looks at the trajectory of the last two IPL seasons, Krunal has outperformed his peers, making him a more compelling option for the national side. Beyond just Pandya, the former selector also highlighted the contributions of Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Rajat Patidar as individuals who should be firmly on the radar of the national selectors.
Statistical Brilliance in 2026
Krunal Pandya’s case for a comeback is not merely based on sentiment; the numbers tell a compelling story. Throughout the 2026 IPL season, he has been utilized as a versatile floater, adapting to the team’s needs with remarkable success. Over 15 matches, he has accumulated 225 runs at an impressive average of 45 and a strike rate of 147. His bowling has been equally influential, claiming 13 wickets while maintaining pressure throughout his spells.
The Road Ahead
While the Indian team management has shown a preference for Axar Patel in recent cycles, the vocal support from a figure as prominent as Kris Srikkanth cannot be ignored. The debate over who offers more value—the left-arm orthodox spin and reliability of Axar or the aggressive, adaptable all-round package of Krunal—will likely continue throughout the season.
As RCB prepares for their upcoming challenges, Krunal Pandya remains a focal point of their strategy. Whether the national selectors choose to heed Srikkanth’s advice or stick with the current incumbents remains to be seen. However, one thing is certain: in the high-stakes world of T20 cricket, players who can deliver in multiple phases of the game will always remain at the forefront of the selection conversation.
