Leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal’s four-wicket spell helped Punjab Kings defend the lowest-ever IPL total, earning praise from co-owner Preity Zinta and fans alike
Chandigarh, April 17:
In one of the most thrilling turnarounds of IPL 2025, Punjab Kings (PBKS) etched their name in history by defending the lowest total ever in the league—just 111 runs—against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). The star of the match? Yuzvendra Chahal, who tore through the KKR batting lineup with a sensational four-wicket spell.
Introduced in the 7th over when KKR were cruising at 62/2, Chahal immediately changed the game’s complexion. He removed Ajinkya Rahane, followed by the scalps of Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Rinku Singh, and Ramandeep Singh, breaking the back of the chase and helping Punjab clinch a stunning 16-run victory at Mullanpur Cricket Stadium.
The performance drew admiration from across the cricket world, including a special post from PBKS co-owner and Bollywood actor Preity Zinta.
“I met Yuzi during the King’s Cup in 2009 in Chandigarh. I was new to cricket & he was a young under-19 cricketer… Our last game was a great example of why I’ve been such a fan of Yuzi over the years,” Preity wrote in a nostalgic Instagram post, sharing a 2009 photo with Chahal and celebrating his first Player of the Match award for PBKS.
Chahal on the Win: “Backed Myself, Stayed Positive”
Speaking after the match, Chahal credited the team effort behind the record-breaking defense.
“It is a team effort. We wanted to be positive, and we felt that if we got 2-3 wickets in the powerplay, it would be good,” Chahal said.
Despite a tough previous outing—where he conceded 56 runs in 4 overs—Chahal stayed confident.
“I always have the mindset of how to get the batters out. I varied my pace, and if they have to hit, they will have to make an effort. When you win such a game, the team’s morale will be high.”
The 33-year-old leggie also expressed joy at receiving his first Man of the Match award for Punjab Kings and is hopeful about more success ahead.
Next Clash: PBKS vs RCB – April 18
Riding high on momentum, Punjab Kings will now face Royal Challengers Bengaluru on April 18, where Chahal—facing his former franchise—will look to deliver another match-winning spell.