IPL 2025: Yuzvendra Chahal set to return for play-offs as Punjab Kings eye historic run

Punjab Kings’ marquee spinner Yuzvendra Chahal, who missed the last two IPL games due to a finger injury, is likely to be back in action for the upcoming IPL 2025 play-offs, offering a timely boost to the franchise chasing its maiden title.

The injury kept Chahal out of critical league stage matches against Delhi Capitals and Mumbai Indians, raising concerns ahead of the knockout phase. However, a BCCI official confirmed that the leg-spinner is on track for a return.

“He’s recovering well and is expected to be fit for the play-offs,” the official said.


Chahal, who was bought for a staggering Rs 18 crore — the highest-ever for a spinner in IPL history — has been a crucial part of the team’s plans this season. His absence saw Harpreet Brar take over spin duties, and the left-arm tweaker delivered with 14 wickets in 12 outings, including two standout four-wicket hauls.

Punjab Kings, who have qualified for the play-offs for the first time since 2014, are set to return to Mullanpur for the eliminator and Qualifier 1 after completing their Jaipur leg.

With Marco Jansen unavailable for the remainder of the season, the team will likely turn to Kyle Jamieson to fill the seam-bowling void.

The franchise’s resurgence this year has been led by the effective captain-coach duo of Shreyas Iyer and Ricky Ponting, whose leadership has helped shed the tag of perennial underachievers.

Despite bowling being their softer link, Punjab will be hoping a fit Chahal and a dependable attack can carry them through in the business end.