Yuzvendra Chahal starred with the ball in Punjab Kings’ (PBKS) thrilling 16-run victory over Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in a low-scoring affair at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium, Mullanpur on Tuesday (April 15).

Chasing 112 to win, KKR’s innings folded for 95 in 15.1 overs. Chahal was the stand-out bowler for PBKS as he recorded the career-best IPL figures of 4-28 in four overs.

Awarded the Player of the Match, the leg-spinner credited the entire team for the effort but highlighted the importance of staying positive despite the low score on the board.

“It is a team effort. We wanted to be positive and we felt if we get 2-3 wickets in the powerplay then it will be good. We saw their spinners turn it and it helped us. When I bowled the first ball, it turned, Shreyas asked me if I wanted a slip, we wanted to be attacking as we had less runs and the only way we could win was by taking wickets,” Chahal said in the post-match interview.

“In the last game I conceded 56 for 4 overs, but I had full confidence and backed myself and my abilities. I always have the mindset of how to get the batters out, I varied my pace and if they have to hit, they will have to make an effort,” he added.

Chahal’s spell not only sealed the win for Punjab but also showcased the wrist-spinner’s mastery of his craft under pressure. In a game where every run mattered and the margin for error was razor-thin, it was his guile and belief that stood out.

“When you win such a game, the team's morale will be high. It's my first man of the match for Punjab, I'm confident if I keep backing my skills and believe in myself, then I will get success,” Chahal remarked.

This was PBKS' fourth victory in six matches this season. They are currently occupying the fourth spot on the 10-team points table.

Punjab Kings will next face Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the Chinnaswamy Stadium on Friday (April 18).