Kamal Ghorui
NEW DELHI: Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) pulled off a dramatic two-wicket win over Mumbai Indians in a last-ball IPL 2026 thriller, and Bhuvneshwar Kumar became the hero of the night. The veteran pacer first starred with the ball by taking four key wickets, then surprised everyone by smashing a crucial six during the tense final moments of the chase.
RCB needed nine runs from the last three balls when Bhuvneshwar launched Raj Angad Bawa over point for six, shifting the game completely in Bengaluru’s favour. It was a rare moment because the last IPL six hit by Bhuvi came way back in 2016 against Rising Pune Supergiants.Watch:After receiving the Player of the Match award, Bhuvneshwar admitted the six meant more to him than the 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.Bhuvneshwar also spoke honestly about what keeps him performing consistently at the top level even at 36 years old.“Honestly, motivation is a very overrated word for me… But the thing which keeps me going is the discipline,” he said, while also thanking his personal trainers and physios for helping him stay fit.Krunal Pandya also played a huge role in the win with a fighting 73 off 46 balls on a difficult 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.Talking about Bhuvneshwar’s bowling, Patidar added, “I think the way he controlled the ball… it’s very difficult to play him.” The victory pushed RCB to the top of the IPL standings, while Mumbai Indians remained near the bottom of the table.
