Rajasthan Royals legspinner Yuzvendra Chahal has become the first bowler in IPL history to reach the milestone of 200 wickets.
Chahal achieved the feat when he dismissed Mohammad Nabi of Mumbai Indians (MI) in Jaipur on Monday. After electing to bat, MI brought Chahal into the attack in the eighth over, and he struck with his third ball. It was a gently floated legbreak that caught the leading edge of Nabi’s bat and resulted in a simple return catch to the bowler.
Chahal, who surpassed Dwayne Bravo as the highest wicket-taker in IPL history last season, reached this milestone in his 153rd match. Speaking about his achievement last year, Chahal said, “I never even thought about it [becoming the highest wicket-taker] when I started playing the IPL.”
Chahal’s journey in the IPL began with the Mumbai Indians in 2011, but he made his debut only in 2013. However, his IPL career truly took off after he joined Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in 2014. During his time with RCB, Chahal played 113 matches, taking 139 wickets at an average of 22.03 and an impressive economy rate of 7.58. He remains the highest wicket-taker for RCB in the IPL.
In the IPL 2022 mega auction, Chahal was picked up by the Rajasthan Royals for INR 6.5 crore. He has been a key player for the Royals, helping them reach the IPL final in that season.
In IPL 2024, Chahal has already taken 13 wickets, putting him at the top of the list alongside Jasprit Bumrah and Harshal Patel. With his exceptional skills and consistent performances, Chahal continues to be a force to reckon with in the IPL.
