NEW DELHI: Punjab Kings suffered their second consecutive defeat in IPL 2026 after a narrow loss to Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad, with a major talking point being the minimal use of spinner Yuzvendra Chahal. Chasing 165, Gujarat secured a four-wicket victory thanks to a late six from Washington Sundar off Marcus Stoinis.
Match Summary
Punjab Kings had started the season strongly and even defeated Gujarat earlier, but their form has dipped at a crucial stage of the tournament. While the bowlers kept the contest alive, some tactical decisions during the chase left fans and experts questioning the team's approach.
Chahal's Limited Role
Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif expressed surprise that Chahal bowled only one over in the entire innings. The veteran leg-spinner, who is the highest wicket-taker in IPL history with 228 wickets, was introduced only in the 14th over and ended with figures of 1 over for 13 runs.
"It surprises me to see the highest wicket taker of IPL history Yuzi Chahal bowl just one over against GT. Remember he has 228 IPL wickets in which 139 have come on the flat Chinnaswamy during his 8 years with RCB," Kaif wrote on his X.
Kaif's Analysis
Kaif admitted the Ahmedabad pitch may have suited fast bowlers due to the grass on the surface, but still felt Punjab should have shown more faith in Chahal's experience and wicket-taking ability. "Ok, the pitch had grass, but Chahal is an IPL great he could have found ways to get wickets. Punjab needs to trust him more," Kaif added.
Chahal's Season Performance
Punjab had bought Chahal for INR 18 crore before the season, but he has taken only seven wickets in nine matches so far. With the playoff race heating up, the franchise will hope their star spinner finds form quickly.
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