Yuzvendra Chahal is one of the most successful leg-spinners in IPL history, known for his sharp turn, flight, and ability to break partnerships under pressure. Ahead of IPL 2026, Punjab Kings (PBKS) decided to retain him for ₹18 Crore, showing how important he is to their bowling attack.
Chahal has been a game-changer in T20 cricket for India and across franchises. With 221 IPL wickets in 174 matches, he remains the tournament’s highest wicket-taker, a record that speaks for his consistency and skill.
Yuzvendra Chahal IPL Player Profile
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Yuzvendra Singh Chahal |
| Date of Birth | 23 July 1990 |
| Age (2026) | 36 Years |
| Role | Bowler |
| Specialization | Right-Arm Leg Spin |
| Teams | PBKS (Current), RR, RCB, MI (Past) |
| IPL Debut | 2013 |
| IPL 2026 Status | Retained by PBKS |
| IPL 2026 Price | ₹18 Crore |
| Total IPL Matches | 174 |
| Total IPL Wickets | 221 |
Why PBKS Retained Yuzvendra Chahal for IPL 2026
Punjab Kings kept Chahal as one of their premium bowlers because:
1. Highest Wicket-Taker in IPL History
Chahal’s consistency makes him a match-winner even on batting-friendly pitches.
2. Experience in Big Matches
From IPL finals to ICC tournaments, he knows how to handle pressure.
3. Smart Middle-Overs Operator
He regularly breaks partnerships at crucial moments, slowing opposition momentum.
4. Variety & Control
Googly, sliders, top-spin — Chahal uses them all with perfect control.
5. Perfect Fit for PBKS Spin Attack
With PBKS building a stronger bowling unit, Chahal is their main spin leader for IPL 2026.
Read Also: IPL Purple Cap Winners List (2008 to 2025)
Yuzvendra Chahal IPL Auction Price History
| Year | Price | Team |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | ₹6.00 Cr | RCB |
| 2019 | ₹6.00 Cr | RCB |
| 2020 | ₹6.00 Cr | RCB |
| 2021 | ₹6.00 Cr | RCB |
| 2022 | ₹6.50 Cr | RR |
| 2023 | ₹6.50 Cr | RR |
| 2024 | ₹6.50 Cr | RR |
| 2025 | ₹18.00 Cr | PBKS |
| 2026 | ₹18.00 Cr (Retained) | PBKS |
Yuzvendra Chahal IPL Batting & Fielding Stats
Batting is not his strength, but here is the complete record:
| IPL Season | Runs | HS | Avg | SR | Catches |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 0 | 0 | – | – | 2 |
| 2024 | 0 | 0 | – | – | 5 |
| 2023 | 0 | 0 | – | – | 1 |
| 2022 | 5 | 5 | 5.00 | 62.50 | 0 |
| 2021 | 10 | 8* | 0.00 | 37.03 | 4 |
| Overall | 37 | 8* | 5.29 | 43.02 | 32 |
Yuzvendra Chahal IPL Bowling Statistics (Career Summary)
| Matches | Overs | Runs | Wickets | Average | Economy | Best | 4W | 5W |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 174 | 631.5 | 5032 | 221 | 22.77 | 7.96 | 5/40 | 8 | 1 |
Season-wise Bowling Breakdown
| Season | Matches | Wickets | Best | Economy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 14 | 16 | 4/28 | 9.56 |
| 2024 | 15 | 18 | 3/11 | 9.41 |
| 2023 | 14 | 21 | 4/17 | 8.18 |
| 2022 | 17 | 27 | 5/40 | 7.75 |
| 2021 | 15 | 18 | 3/11 | 7.05 |
| 2020 | 15 | 21 | 3/18 | 7.08 |
| 2019 | 14 | 18 | 4/38 | 7.82 |
Chahal’s 2022 Purple Cap and his long run of consistent wickets is a major reason PBKS trust him as their lead spinner in 2026.
Yuzvendra Chahal Career Highlights
- Most wickets in IPL history
- Purple Cap winner (2022)
- First bowler to cross 200 IPL wickets
- Part of India’s T20 World Cup winning squad (2024)
- Exceptional record in the middle overs (Overs 7–15)
- Known for tight lines and wicket-taking googlies
With PBKS investing ₹18 Crore in retaining him, Chahal remains one of their most trusted players for IPL 2026.
Conclusion
Yuzvendra Chahal continues to be one of the most impactful bowlers in T20 cricket. His experience, variations, and unmatched wicket-taking ability make him a priceless asset for PBKS. With IPL 2026 around the corner, Punjab Kings will rely heavily on his magic to dominate the middle overs and push for their maiden IPL title.
