Former India cricketer Aakash Chopra has raised questions over Punjab Kings’ handling of their premier spinner Yuzvendra Chahal during their five-wicket win against Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2026. Chopra’s primary concern revolved around Chahal not completing his full quota of four overs, despite being one of PBKS’ most economical bowlers on the night. The leg-spinner conceded just 21 runs in his three overs and picked up the key wicket of Ruturaj Gaikwad.
Notably, he was the only bowler in the CSK innings who didn’t concede a single boundary. Taking to social media, Chopra questioned the tactical call. “How did the only bowler who didn’t concede a single boundary not finish his quota of overs? The only spinner. The man is Yuzi Chahal,” he remarked.
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He also pointed out that the presence of Shivam Dube at the crease shouldn’t have been enough reason to hold Chahal back. “Yes, Dube was there. But didn’t (Ravindra) Jadeja dismiss him in Guwahati?” Chopra added, highlighting alternative match-up possibilities.
How did the only bowler who didn’t concede a single boundary not finish his quota of overs? The only spinner. The man is Yuzi Chahal.
Yes, Dube was there. But didn’t Jadeja dismiss him in Guwahati? 17 overs of pace meant one extra fielder inside the circle for the last 2 overs.…— Aakash Chopra (@cricketaakash) April 3, 2026
Chahal’s last over came as early as the 12th, after which he wasn’t brought back into the attack. Instead, PBKS leaned heavily on pace, bowling 17 overs of seam, a move that also impacted fielding restrictions in the death overs. Despite the debate, the decision did not hurt the Punjab Kings.
They managed to restrict CSK to 209/5 and chased the target comfortably with eight balls to spare, underlining their strong overall performance. The decision to hold back Chahal could have been influenced by match-up data. Dube has never been dismissed by Chahal in the IPL, although he has scored at a modest rate against him.
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Additionally, Chahal’s numbers against left-handers are relatively weaker compared to right-handers, which may have played a role in the captain’s strategy.In the end, while PBKS secured a convincing win, Chopra’s remarks have reignited discussion around in-game decision-making and optimal utilisation of key bowlers.
