In a major boost for Punjab Kings (PBKS), veteran leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal is likely to return to the playing XI ahead of the high-stakes Qualifier 2 match against Mumbai Indians (MI) on Sunday, June 1. According to The Times of India, Chahal was seen actively participating in training sessions in Ahmedabad, fueling speculation of a potential comeback.
Chahal Trains in Ahmedabad Amid Injury Concerns
Chahal was spotted warming up with the squad, taking catches, and bowling in the nets—albeit with protective support on his right wrist. The 34-year-old has been sidelined for PBKS’s last two fixtures due to a wrist injury, missing out on the Qualifier 1 against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and the final group stage game, which also happened to be against MI.
PBKS’s spin-bowling coach Sunil Joshi had earlier confirmed that the wrist injury was the reason for Chahal’s absence. However, sources close to the team reveal that the INR 18 crore signing is willing to take pain-relief injections if needed to play in this crucial fixture.
A Season of Highs and Lows for Chahal
Chahal has had a rollercoaster IPL 2025 season. He started slow, managing only two wickets in his first five games. But he turned his campaign around with a stellar four-wicket haul against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). He followed it up with another impressive performance, finishing with 4/32 against Chennai Super Kings (CSK).
So far, Chahal has taken 12 wickets at an economy rate of 9.56. His experience and form could prove crucial for PBKS, who finished at the top of the IPL 2025 points table but slipped in Qualifier 1 against RCB. The team now faces a must-win scenario against MI to secure a spot in the final.
With Chahal potentially back in the XI, PBKS will hope for a strong spin performance to help them bounce back and keep their title hopes alive.
