Despite a slow beginning to his IPL 2025 campaign, Yuzvendra Chahal is not perturbed. The experienced leg spinner, now representing Punjab Kings (PBKS), has picked only one wicket from three games so far, but figures do not give the complete picture. Chahal's work in the middle overs, where he has throttled run flow and imposed constant pressure, has been key to PBKS's early-season success.

"I'm settling into my groove. I'm loving my bowling. If we lift the trophy and I don't pick up a single wicket, I'll take that every day," Chahal said in an appearance on JioHotstar Press Room with Punjab Kings.

Chahal, who was bought for a massive INR 18 crore in the auction, deflected chatter around his price. "I deserve this price," he replied unflinchingly. "Whether it's INR 6 crore or INR 18 crore, it's the same mindset, you just want to help the team win."

We Are Coming in the Top 2

PBKS have won two of their first three games, and Chahal is full of confidence regarding the team's prospects this season. With a balanced team full of depth in both departments, the 34-year-old leggie feels they are one of the strongest title contenders.

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We are arriving top two; we are the best side. If you see the bowling, we have 7-8 options. In batting, we have 9-10 good options. It's a very balanced team," said Chahal. "It's a very good sign that the team will be a champion this year.

He also highlighted the positive team environment. “We are like a family. Everyone is treated equally. We’re enjoying both on and off the field,” he added.

Dismissing the ‘Pitch Problem’

A few franchises have complained about the playing conditions this season. KKR skipper Ajinkya Rahane has demanded more spin-friendly pitches, CSK coach Stephen Fleming has conceded they've found it tough to read their home pitch, and LSG mentor Zaheer Khan even went to the extent of blaming the curator after a defeat.

Chahal, though, isn't listening to the buzz.

“You need to speak to the curator about this,” he said with a smile. “We enjoyed our first home game in Mullanpur. We’re not concerned with what other teams are talking about, we’re enjoying playing here and getting good support.”

Basing himself on his huge experience, Chahal insisted on flexibility. "We learn how to get about our job on every and any ground. It's just a matter of evaluating the circumstances and getting mentally geared up. I bowl in response to circumstances."

Committed to Team Targets, Not Personal Comebacks

While Chahal remains India’s all-time leading wicket-taker in IPL history, with 206 wickets in 163 matches, he hasn’t featured for the national side since August 2023. Yet, he isn’t overly concerned about making a comeback.

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“I’m not thinking about all this. It’s not in my hands. I’m just focusing on my cricket and doing my best. What has to happen tomorrow, we’ll think about that later.”

From Mumbai Indians to RCB, Rajasthan Royals, and Punjab Kings now, Yuzvendra Chahal is a master at his game. Though he might not be making it to the papers with wickets this year, his presence and attitude are still a strength to any team he is with and this year too, he's placing his bets on PBKS to make it to the end.