Soon after checking into the team hotel in Mumbai on Saturday (April 11, 2026), Krunal Pandya settled into a chair and briefed his hairstylist to “do something different”. After all, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru allrounder was gearing up to face his alma mater — and a side led by his younger brother.

The makeover took 90 minutes, and the end result — call it what you will — certainly stood out. It drew curious glances from opponents and fans alike. But while the hairstyle grabbed eyeballs, it was Krunal’s on-field craft that truly made a statement.