RCB releasing Yuzi Chahal ahead of 2021 Mega Auction was “Unbelievable” says Kevin Pietersen
Former England cricketer Kevin Pietersen expressed his surprise at the release of leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal by Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) ahead of the IPL 2022 auction. Pietersen was on-air while doing commentary for Star Sports during the Rajasthan Royals vs Lucknow Super Giants game.
Pietersen surprised by RCB’s decision to release Chahal
Chahal earlier played for RCB and is now playing for the Rajasthan Royals. With 177 wickets in 137 games, Chahal could become the most successful bowler in the history of IPL 2023, surpassing Dwayne Bravo’s record of 183 wickets in 161 games.
Pietersen praised Chahal for being RCB’s most valuable asset. He said, “One of the greatest gifts in the history of the IPL is Chahal to Rajasthan Royals. Absolutely no idea how Bangalore let him go. Always took the wickets, he was the bloke who kept them in the game. Unbelievable that this bloke is now wearing pink. With the ball, he was the most valuable asset for RCB.”
Chahal’s impressive IPL 2023 performance
In the IPL 2023 season so far, Chahal has taken 11 wickets to be the joint-highest wicket-taker. He played a crucial role in Rajasthan Royals’ win against Delhi Capitals in their opening match, where he picked up three wickets and was the Player of the Match. Chahal will be keen to continue his impressive form in the upcoming matches and help the Rajasthan Royals reach the playoffs.
In the Rajasthan Royals’ match against Lucknow Super Giants, the pitch was not conducive to batting. However, RR openers Jos Buttler and Yashavi Jaiswal managed to keep pace with the required run rate. Jaiswal made 44 off 35 balls with the help of four boundaries and two sixes, while Buttler scored 40 in 41. RR, however, lost by 10 runs, with their return to the Sawai Mansingh Stadium after four years ending in disappointment. The bowlers had done a good job for RR, but LSG staged a remarkable comeback to emerge winners in the end.
Chahal’s crucial role for RR
Despite the loss, the Rajasthan Royals will be banking on Chahal’s performances in the upcoming matches. The leg-spinner’s ability to take wickets in the middle overs can be vital for the team. He has proved his worth as a match-winner in the IPL, and the Rajasthan Royals will be hoping that he can continue his good form and help the team qualify for the playoffs.
Yuzvendra Chahal’s impressive performances in the IPL 2023 season so far have proved his worth as a valuable asset for the Rajasthan Royals. Kevin Pietersen’s surprise at RCB’s decision to release Chahal has been echoed by many cricket experts. Chahal’s ability to take wickets at crucial moments in the game can make him a game-changer for his team. With the IPL 2023 season still in its early stages, there is plenty of time for Chahal to make his mark and help the Rajasthan Royals lift the trophy.
