NEW DELHI: The Indian Premier League (IPL) has always been a stage for reinvention, and Yuzvendra Chahal is embracing that spirit wholeheartedly.
As he gears up for the 2025 season with his new franchise, Punjab Kings (PBKS), the star leg-spinner is blending business with pleasure — keeping the atmosphere light while keeping his eyes firmly on a national comeback.
Chahal, known as much for his humour as for his wicket-taking abilities, wasted no time making an impression at PBKS.
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During a recent training session, he entertained teammates by imitating Pakistan’s Mohammad Rizwan, reproducing the wicketkeeper’s famous line, “Yes, it is a two.”
In a video he shared online, Chahal playfully teased teammate Shashank Singh before heading to the crease, saying, “Darr gye kya (Are you afraid)?”
Watch:
His antics had fans in splits, a reminder that while he may be off the national radar for now, he remains one of the most beloved figures in Indian cricket.
Having last played for India in August 2023, Chahal was overlooked despite a strong IPL 2024 season where he claimed 18 wickets in 15 games.
Despite making the title-winning India squad for the T20 World Cup last year, Chahal failed to make a single appearance for the Men in Blue in the respective tournament.
Ahead of the IPL 2025 auction, Rajasthan Royals chose not to retain him, forcing the leg-spinner into the mega auction, where PBKS secured him for a staggering Rs 18 crore.
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With a fresh start at a new franchise, Chahal sees this season as a golden opportunity to prove himself.
His recent domestic performances have been encouraging. Despite missing the Vijay Hazare Trophy, he picked up 10 wickets in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy at a strike rate of 15.00.
Now, as he prepares to don the PBKS jersey, Chahal will look to make IPL 2025 his proving ground.
Get the latest IPL 2025 updates on Times of India, including match schedules, team squads, and live scores for CSK, MI, RCB, KKR, SRH, LSG, DC, GT, PBKS, and RR. Find out how to watch IPL 2025 in Canada and the USA.
