Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has voiced his support for Yuzvendra Chahal ahead of the upcoming Indian Premier League 2026 season, saying the veteran leg-spinner still has plenty to prove despite not being a regular member of the Indian team in recent years.Speaking on Star Sports, Pathan said Chahal would be determined to make a strong statement in the IPL after spending a long time outside the national setup.
“He is the most successful bowler in IPL history, and he has not got to play for India on a regular basis. So this thought will always remain in his heart, and it should be there for any player, Yuzi must also be thinking that he was doing commentary with us, and whenever an active player does commentary, fans start believing he might be stepping away from cricket. But Yuzi is fully focused and ready for this IPL season. He will step onto the field to prove a point.” Pathan said.
Chahal’s impressive IPL numbers
There is little doubt about Chahal’s stature in IPL history. The leg-spinner currently holds the record for the most wickets in the tournament. So far, Chahal has played 174 IPL matches and taken 221 wickets, making him the highest wicket-taker in the league’s history. His ability to pick wickets consistently in the middle overs has made him one of the most valuable spinners in the competition.With the 19th edition of the IPL approaching, Chahal will be looking to add more wickets to his tally while representing Punjab Kings.
When did Chahal last play for India?
Despite his outstanding IPL numbers, Chahal has not been a regular feature in the Indian side recently. The leg-spinner last represented India national cricket team in a T20 International against the West Indies on August 13, 2023. He also last played an ODI for India earlier that year against New Zealand on January 24, 2023.Since then, the competition among spinners in the Indian squad has increased, with players like Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel and Ravi Bishnoi frequently featuring in the limited-overs setup.
Chance to prove a point in IPL 2026
With IPL 2026 around the corner, Chahal now has another opportunity to remind selectors of his abilities. Strong performances for Punjab Kings could strengthen his case for a return to the Indian team.
