‘Magician’ Chahal casts spell with IPL heroics

NEW DELHI: Veteran spinner Yuzvendra Chahal has been out of the Indian national team for two years but is toast of the cricketing world after a stellar IPL show for Punjab Kings.

The 34-year-old returned an IPL best of 4-28 Tuesday as Punjab defended the tournament´s lowest-ever total of 111 to beat Kolkata Knight Riders by 16 runs in a thriller. Chahal -- IPL's leading bowler with 211 wickets in 166 matches -- was bought for a whopping $2.13 million by Punjab in the November auction but had ordinary outings this season prior to the match-winning spell.

After Punjab were bowled out for 111 in 15.3 overs at Mullanpur, Chahal came into his own to rattle Kolkata who were cruising at 62-2 in their chase. "In the last game I conceded 56 for four overs, but I had full confidence and backed myself and my abilities," Chahal said after being named player of the match.

"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." Chahal struck with two key wickets including opposition skipper Ajinkaya Rahane, trapped lbw for 17 with a googly that outfoxed the Indian batsman. Chahal struck again with two in two balls, with the visitors bowled out for 95 in 15.1 overs.