'We can be champions this year' - Yuzvendra Chahal on Punjab Kings' performance in IPL 2025

Yuzvendra Chahal, the experienced leg-spinner currently playing for Punjab Kings (PBKS) has picked up just one wicket in the three matches played so far in IPL 2025. While the wickets column may not reflect his impact, Chahal has been effective in controlling the run rate and maintaining pressure in the middle overs, showcasing his value to the side even when not at his best.

Despite the slow start, the leggie remains optimistic about PBKS' chances this season and added that the team boasts depth with eight bowling options and nine to ten solid batting choices. The spinner believes that they can be champions this year and will finish in the top 2.

"We are coming in the top 2; we are the best team. If you look at the bowling and batting, we have 7-8 options in bowling. If you look at the batting, we have 9-10 options. We have a very balanced side. I think it's a very good sign that the team will be a champion this year. Our focus is on finishing in the top two and securing a place in the playoffs," said Chahal on JioHotstar.

Not worried about the pitch: Chahal

This season, several teams have voiced concerns about pitch conditions. KKR skipper Ajinkya Rahane called for more assistance from the surface, CSK head coach Stephen Fleming admitted publicly that there is no home advantage, and LSG mentor Zaheer Khan even blamed the curator after their loss to PBKS.

When asked about these complaints, the 34-year-old downplayed the matter, saying he is not too concerned with pitch conditions. He expressed confidence that the Shreyas Iyer-led side is equipped to perform in all conditions.

"You need to speak to the curator about this. We enjoyed our first home in Mullanpur. We are not concerned with what other teams are talking about. We are really enjoying playing here. We are getting good support.

“We know how to go about our business on each and every ground as we, as players, have played there in the past. It is all about assessing the situation. It is about how you mentally prepare yourself. I bowl accordingly to whatever the situation is,” he added on about pitch conditions.

Speaking about his performance, the Haryana-born cricketer emphasised that his focus remains on the team's success rather than personal milestones. The bowler also admitted that he deserves the price tag.

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"We have only played three matches so far. There is a long way to go. The team has won two matches and my focus is on making the team win. That's about it. The tournament has just started, and I am finding my rhythm. I am enjoying my bowling. If we win the trophy and I don't take a single wicket, I'll take that every day.

"I deserve this price tag. When you are playing, you don't think about what price you fetched in the auction. Whether you go for INR 6 crore or INR 18 crore, it is the same mindset, and you just want to make the team win," said Chahal.

Chahal is the leading wicket-taker in IPL history, with 206 wickets in 163 matches. He has previously represented Mumbai Indians, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, and Rajasthan Royals, and now dons the PBKS jersey in IPL 2025.