The IPL 2025 league stage concludes with a high-stakes clash between Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Mumbai Indians (MI) at Jaipur’s Sawai Mansingh Stadium. Both teams have already secured playoff berths, but the final league match carries huge significance: a win could guarantee a coveted top-two finish, offering an extra shot at the IPL final. However, PBKS are sweating over the fitness of their star spinner, Yuzvendra Chahal, who is under an injury cloud at a crucial juncture.
Yuzvendra Chahal’s Injury: What We Know
Wrist Injury Raises Doubts
Yuzvendra Chahal, PBKS’s leading spinner and a key figure in their resurgence this season, missed the previous game against Delhi Capitals due to what was initially described as a “small niggle.” However, subsequent reports have clarified that Chahal is nursing a wrist injury, casting serious doubt over his availability for the crunch match against Mumbai Indians.
- Chahal suffered the injury ahead of the Delhi Capitals clash and was rested as a precaution.
- PBKS assistant coach Sunil Joshi confirmed the decision was to avoid aggravating the issue before the playoffs.
- The franchise is optimistic about Chahal’s return for the playoffs but is unlikely to risk him for this league-stage decider.
Impact on PBKS’s Bowling Attack
Chahal’s absence was felt in the defeat to Delhi Capitals, with PBKS’s spin department lacking penetration. Karnataka leg-spinner Praveen Dubey replaced Chahal and is likely to feature again if the senior pro is ruled out.
More Selection Headaches for Punjab Kings
Marco Jansen’s Departure
Adding to PBKS’s woes, South African all-rounder Marco Jansen is set to leave the squad to join his national team ahead of the World Test Championship Final. His exit further depletes PBKS’s bowling resources at a critical stage.
PBKS Squad Depth Will Be Tested
With Chahal and Jansen potentially missing, PBKS will rely on:
- Arshdeep Singh
- Marcus Stoinis
- Harpreet Brar
- Praveen Dubey
- Yash Thakur
The team’s depth and adaptability will be under the spotlight as they take on a formidable MI batting lineup.
What’s at Stake: The Top-Two Advantage
Finishing in the top two is a massive boost in the IPL playoffs, as it gives teams two chances to reach the final. Both PBKS and MI are locked in a tight race, and tonight’s winner will likely secure that advantage.
FAQs
1. Why is Yuzvendra Chahal doubtful for the PBKS vs MI match?
Chahal is nursing a wrist injury, which kept him out of the previous game. PBKS are unlikely to risk him before the playoffs.
2. Who replaced Chahal in the last PBKS match?
Karnataka leg-spinner Praveen Dubey replaced Chahal against Delhi Capitals and is expected to play again if Chahal is unavailable.
3. Will Marco Jansen play against Mumbai Indians?
Marco Jansen is set to leave the PBKS squad to join South Africa for the World Test Championship Final, making his participation unlikely.
4. What does a top-two finish mean in the IPL playoffs?
Teams finishing in the top two get two opportunities to qualify for the IPL final, making this match crucial for both PBKS and MI.
5. Is Chahal expected to return for the playoffs?
PBKS are optimistic about Chahal’s recovery and hope to have him fit for the IPL 2025 playoffs.
Conclusion
As Punjab Kings and Mumbai Indians clash for a top-two finish in IPL 2025, all eyes are on Yuzvendra Chahal’s fitness. PBKS’s decision to rest their star spinner highlights the importance of player management ahead of the playoffs. With key players missing and high stakes on the line, tonight’s match promises drama, pressure, and a true test of squad depth as both teams chase the ultimate IPL advantage.