
IPL 2025: Chahal Delivers with Wicket Haul Against KKR
28 days ago | 5 Views
Chandigarh: The demand for value-for-money in the IPL is inescapable for players. Yuzvendra Chahal likely felt this pressure after the Punjab Kings (PBKS) acquired him for a staggering ₹18 crore, making him the most expensive spinner in auction history and the league's leading wicket-taker.
However, his performance this season has raised concerns, as he has taken only two wickets in five matches with an economy rate of 11.13, and he did not complete his full bowling quota in three of those games. His recent outing, where he conceded 56 runs against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), further tarnished his reputation.
Despite these setbacks, Chahal rebounded impressively on Tuesday night, claiming four wickets to secure a total of 111 against Kolkata Knight Riders, who were bowled out for 95 at Mullanpur.
Chahal effectively varied his pace, dismissing established batsmen Ajinkya Rahane and Angkrish Raghuvanshi, along with Rinku Singh and Ramandeep Singh.
Following the 16-run victory, head coach Ricky Ponting commended the bowlers, stating, “I want to praise all the bowlers who were outstanding. But the little bloke sitting down here (pointing at Chahal) was tremendous.”
Ponting noted that Chahal had to pass a fitness test before the match due to a shoulder injury sustained against SRH, and that Chahal was eager to play against KKR. “We’ve challenged you a bit during the week as well to go back to being you and bowling like you. What did you do tonight? You bowled like you, and you won us the game,” Ponting remarked.
With PBKS displaying a formidable bowling attack, including pacers Arshdeep Singh (1/11) and Marco Jansen (3/17), Chahal's performance (4/28) triggered a batting collapse for KKR, who fell from a promising 62/2.
After the match, Chahal stated, “It is a team effort. We wanted to be positive and felt that if we could take 2-3 wickets in the Powerplay, it would be beneficial. In the last game, I conceded 56 runs in four overs, but I had full confidence in my abilities.
“I always focus on how to dismiss the batsmen. I varied my pace, and if they want to score, they will have to put in the effort. Winning such a match is always rewarding.”
Read Also: Fabulous Five: Unyielding Ju Claims Championship Title Again
Get the latest Bollywood entertainment news, trending celebrity news, latest celebrity news, new movie reviews, latest entertainment news, latest Bollywood news, and Bollywood celebrity fashion & style updates!