Yuzvendra Chahal‘s absence from the national team concluded as he earned a spot in the squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against South Africa. He had gradually lost his place in the squad over the past year, leading to him not participating in any games during the 2022 T20 World Cup and missing selection for the 2023 ODI World Cup.
Chahal’s last ODI appearance was in the home series against New Zealand in January 2023, having played only two ODIs in 2023. In T20Is, he was part of the team that experienced a 3-2 series loss against West Indies. Chahal faced recent exclusion from the Indian squad for the five-match T20I series against Australia.
However, he showcased exceptional form for Haryana in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, securing six wickets in the initial match against Uttarakhand and maintaining a consistent performance with four wickets in as many matches thereafter.
Chahal discussed his return to the team after being included in the squad for the ODI series against South Africa.
“In T20s, as a bowler, you know that the batter will go after you after two dots, but here you have to earn the wicket. I think [in] 50 overs, you enjoy more,” he told Sportstar.
He also commented on the use of two balls in ODI cricket, a practice that many believe has diminished the impact of spinners and the effectiveness of reverse swing.
“The [second] new ball has been in play for more than 10 years now. It is an advantage for the batters with two new balls, but I enjoy that challenge. Ultimately, it is a rule and we need to prepare according to that,” Chahal said in this regard.
Chahal played a crucial role in Haryana’s recent victory against Delhi in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, contributing with an economical spell of 1-37 as his team successfully defended 294.
“I believe leg-spinners across the game are performing admirably”- Yuzvendra Chahal
Leg-spinners are highly valued, particularly in white-ball cricket. Their assortment of variations, combined with their natural ability to take wickets, ensures their consistent presence in the playing XI.
Expressing his view that leg-spinners throughout the game are in excellent form, Chahal stated: “I think the leg-spinners across the game are bowling well. The variations have increased now. So, the batters also have to anticipate more if the next one will be a googly or a flipper.”
The ODI series between India and South Africa is set to commence on December 17.
Get the latest cricket news here, like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter and Instagram for more such updates.
