Image courtesy: yuzi_chahal23/Instagram
The Rajasthan Royals are known for their attacking brand of cricket, and their success in the Indian Premier League (IPL) over the years has been largely attributed to their match-winning spinners. This year, two spinners will have to stand out for the team – Yuzvendra Chahal and Ravichandran Ashwin.
Chahal, the 32-year-old leg-spinner, has been a force to reckon with in the IPL. He has consistently been among the top wicket-takers in the tournament and has helped his team win crucial matches. Chahal started his IPL journey with the Mumbai Indians in 2011, but it was only when he moved to the Royal Challengers Bangalore that he found his rhythm. In 2022, he was bought by the Rajasthan Royals and has been one of their most dependable players since then.
Chahal’s ability to spin the ball both ways, his flight and deception, and his control over his length make him a tough bowler to face. He has been particularly effective against left-handers, whom he often dismisses with his googly. Chahal’s best performance in the IPL came in 2022, when he took 5 for 14 against the Kolkata Knight Riders. He finished the tournament with 22 wickets in 14 matches at an average of 17.36.
Ashwin, on the other hand, is a seasoned campaigner with a wealth of experience in all forms of cricket. The 36-year-old off-spinner has been a consistent performer for the Indian cricket team and has taken more than 400 wickets in international cricket. In the IPL, Ashwin started his career with the Chennai Super Kings and has played for several teams since then. He joined the Rajasthan Royals in 2021 and has been a key player for them ever since.
Ashwin’s accuracy, variations, and his ability to read the batsman’s mind make him a formidable spinner. He has a lethal carrom ball that has deceived some of the best batsmen in the world. Ashwin’s best performance in the IPL came in 2012, when he took 4 for 34 against the Kolkata Knight Riders. He finished the tournament with 13 wickets in 16 matches at an average of 26.30.
Together, Chahal and Ashwin have been a lethal spin duo for the Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2023. Their ability to take wickets at crucial moments has helped the team win some crucial matches. In a match against the Mumbai Indians, Chahal and Ashwin took 5 wickets between them, helping the Royals defend a modest total.