Key Highlights:
Yuzvendra Chahal, the highest T20 wicket-taker at the Chinnaswamy Stadium, is set to make a high-profile return to his old IPL fortress as Punjab Kings (PBKS) take on Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in Match 34 of IPL 2025. For a player synonymous with RCB’s golden era between 2014 and 2021, this match is more than just another league fixture — it’s a homecoming wrapped in rivalry.
Now wearing PBKS red, Chahal is once again expected to be a key weapon as Punjab look to outclass RCB in front of their roaring home crowd.
Chahal’s Form Heading into Match 34
Yuzvendra Chahal has already shown sparks of brilliance this season. His 4-wicket haul against KKR was one of the most clinical spells of IPL 2025 so far, and a Player of the Match award added to his already glittering IPL resume.
IPL 2025 So Far:
- Matches: 6
- Wickets: 9
- Best Figures: 4/22 vs KKR
- Economy Rate: 7.66
“He’s back to bowling with flight, confidence, and attacking intent,” said PBKS bowling coach Charl Langeveldt.
Chinnaswamy Stadium: Chahal’s Favorite Ground
Chahal’s numbers at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium are remarkable:
- 52 wickets in 41 T20 innings
- Best Bowling Figures: 4/25
- Bowling Average: 20.34
- Economy Rate: 7.89
Having bowled over 160 overs at this venue, Chahal knows every inch of this high-scoring ground — and how to exploit its deceptive bounce and shorter boundaries.
Cricbuzz Insight: Chahal has dismissed Virat Kohli once in the nets — but never in an official IPL match. Will that change tonight?
What to Expect from Yuzvendra Chahal Tonight vs RCB
Chahal is likely to bowl:
- One over in the Powerplay if RCB’s right-handers start strong
- Two overs through the middle overs, where he thrives
- One over late if the match is in balance, especially vs finishers like Maxwell and Green
Strategic Matchups:
- Vs Kohli: 1 dismissal (net), but Kohli has often played him cautiously
- Vs Maxwell: Struck at 190+ vs Chahal, but dismissed twice
- Vs Patidar: Uncomfortable vs wrist-spin, may be a key target
Cricbuzz Fantasy Tip: Pick Chahal in your XI. A potential 3-wicket haul + economy bonus on a ground he owns historically.
PBKS’s Spin Strategy Revolves Around Chahal
With Livingstone and Brar offering part-time support, PBKS will rely heavily on Chahal to:
- Control the middle overs
- Break key partnerships
- Restrict run flow when RCB target their weak fifth bowling option
If PBKS bowl first, Chahal’s overs could define the par score at Chinnaswamy tonight.
Fantasy Cricket Spotlight – Chahal a Top Differential Pick
Chahal remains under-picked in many fantasy leagues due to perceptions about Chinnaswamy being a pacer’s graveyard — but here’s why he breaks the mold:
- Highest wicket-taker ever at this ground
- Bowls when the stakes are highest
- Batters often target him, which brings wickets
💡 Ideal role: Fantasy vice-captain for grand leagues and a key differential for small leagues.
Why Chahal’s Matchup vs RCB Is Extra Special
- First match back at Chinnaswamy since leaving RCB
- 8 years of fan love — now met with competitive fire
- Facing familiar faces in Kohli, Siraj, and the coaching staff
For PBKS, a Chahal performance could not only win the match — it could define their mid-season surge.
Dry Weather, Spinning Pitch – All Favors Chahal Tonight
The Bangalore weather is clear, and the pitch is expected to slow down under lights, making Chahal’s variations even more effective. Without rain and with a dry outfield, expect sharp turn and grip for leggies in the second innings.
Yuzvendra Chahal: PBKS’s Best Bet for a Breakthrough Performance
As the IPL 2025 season heats up, Yuzvendra Chahal returns to the stage he once dominated, now as a rival. PBKS fans will hope he brings the same magic — only this time, against RCB. With spin to offer, wickets to take, and points to earn, Chahal is ready for the big moment.
Disclaimer
This is a sponsored post in partnership with Cricbuzz. The content, including player previews, stats, and fantasy recommendations, has been created for promotional purposes. Hindustan Herald and Cricbuzz do not guarantee match outcomes or fantasy returns. Please play fantasy games responsibly.
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