Yuzvendra Chahal’s signing by Punjab Kings was one of the highlights of the IPL 2025 mega-auction on Sunday (November 24). The wrist-spinner, who didn’t feature in Rajasthan Royals’ list of retained players earlier this month, entered into the auction ring with a base price of INR 2 Crore.
Chahal was expected to attract several IPL franchises and that’s exactly what happened, with PBKS outbidding SRH, RCB, LSG, CSK and GT to secure his services for INR 18 Crore.
After bagging a massive bid, Chahal expressed his excitement while also asserting that he deserved the price after being released by the Royals.
“I was quite nervous and anxious because this amount is what I got in the last three seasons combined. I think I deserve this price, and I am very excited," said Chahal on JioCinema.
“Whoever has been bought at any price is well-deserved. Sometimes teams don’t have the purse, and they must plan the whole team at the main auction. For me, being selected means these two months will help you improve your game – whether you are a youngster or a senior. You get to learn a lot," he added.
Chahal also commented on the prospect of playing with Arshdeep Singh and Shreyas Iyer, who were roped in by PBKS for INR 18 crore and INR 26.75 crore, respectively.
“I’m excited as my bond with Shreyas Iyer and Arshdeep Singh is strong, and I will also get to learn a lot from Ricky Ponting sir. At least I’m closer to home now. It was Jaipur initially, and now it will be Chandigarh,” Chahal stated.
“I had a hunch and even my friends told me that I’d go to Punjab, but I had no idea it would be for such a high price. I had Rs 12 cr – 13 cr in mind, but I do deserve this. Wherever you go, you always have the opportunity to learn and grow, and I’ll make sure to work hard and deliver my best," he further remarked.
Yuzvendra Chahal reflected on his time with fellow spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, saying that he has learned a lot from the veteran campaigner at RR.
“Playing at the Chinnaswamy Stadium eliminated my fear of performing in bigger stadiums. I played with Ravichandran Ashwin for three years and learned a lot from him — he’s a legend. You always want the support of your fellow spinner because it’s a team game at the end of the day. It’s so much better when you have another spinner to help you out," Chahal said.
