Why Didn't Yuzvendra Chahal Bowl? Mystery Behind Chahal Snub Finally Explained By PBKS Coach
There has been an immense amount of backlash regarding star bowler Yuzvendra Chahal not bowling a single over in their dramatic three wicket defeat to Delhi Capitals in the IPL 2026 contest at Dharamsala.
This was the fourth consecutive loss for Punjab Kings following a spectacular six straight victories to begin the tournament. The defeat also saw them lose an opportunity to reclaim the top spot on the IPL 2026 points table.
Their bowling and fielding cost them severely once again as Punjab continue to have the fewest wickets taken among all teams in the competition and dropped catches were a feature of the contest against Delhi Capitals.
The Capitals had to chase down a daunting target of 211 runs and found themselves in a position where the game was drifting away from them at 33/3 and later at 74/4. However captain Axar Patel changed the complexion of the contest with a ferocious 56 from 30 deliveries.
They were later guided by a 51 from 28 balls by David Miller while youngster Ashutosh Sharma
Also Read | “Focus On Fielding And Bowling”: Shreyas Iyer Sends Strong Message To PBKS Players After Another IPL 2026 Collapse
PBKS Coach Explains Decision Not to Bowl Chahal
On reflection on why the spinners weren't used in the innings by spin bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule :
"There was definitely a thought about bowling the spinners during the time out but the ball was seaming and the conditions were helping the fast bowlers. The decision was very spontaneous to continue with the pacers and try to pick wickets which we managed early on But one partnership just took the game away from us."
This surprised many fans given the experience Chahal has in pressure situations and that he is their most experienced bowler.
The PBKS support staff remain optimistic despite the string of recent defeats
He Added :
"This is still a team that has done very well in the tournament. Yes, we have lost a few games, but we will only reflect on certain areas. There won't be any major changes because everyone has contributed at different stages. We just need to find a way to turn things around quickly."
Punjab Kings now need to turn things around in quick time with the playoff race reaching its climax.