IPL 2026: Why Yuzvendra Chahal didn’t bowl vs DC? PBKS coach explains surprise move

Punjab Kings’ bowling strategy came under scrutiny after star spinner Yuzvendra Chahal was not used for a single over during their heartbreaking three-wicket defeat to Delhi Capitals in IPL 2026. The loss marked PBKS’ fourth consecutive defeat after beginning the tournament with six straight wins, costing them a golden opportunity to reclaim the top spot in the points table.

Punjab’s bowling and fielding concerns continued to haunt them, with the side still having picked up the fewest wickets among all teams this season. Dropped catches at crucial moments once again proved costly as Delhi Capitals pulled off one of the most dramatic chases of the campaign.

Chasing 211 in Dharamshala, Delhi were in deep trouble at 33/3 and later 74/4 before skipper Axar Patel turned the game around with a blistering 56 off 30 balls. David Miller then anchored the chase brilliantly with 51 off 28 deliveries, while Ashutosh Sharma added a rapid 24 off 10 balls. Young all-rounder Madhav Tiwari also played a decisive role, contributing 2/40 with the ball and an unbeaten 18 off eight balls during the chase. Auqib Nabi eventually sealed the thrilling win with a four and a six in his unbeaten 10 off just two deliveries.

Earlier, Punjab Kings had dominated the powerplay through Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh, racing to 51 without loss in only three overs. Priyansh smashed a fearless 56 off 33 balls, including six sixes, but the innings ultimately ended in disappointment as Delhi scripted a remarkable comeback.

Explaining why Chahal was not introduced into the attack, Punjab Kings spin-bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule said the team felt the conditions were favouring the pacers.

“There was definitely a thought about bowling the spinners during the time-out, but the ball was seaming and the conditions were helping the fast bowlers. The decision was very spontaneous to continue with the pacers and try to pick wickets, which we managed early on. But one partnership just took the game away from us,” Bahutule said.

Despite the losing streak, the PBKS support staff remains confident about the squad’s balance and ability to bounce back.

“This is still a team that has done very well in the tournament. Yes, we have lost a few games, but we will only reflect on certain areas. There won’t be any major changes because everyone has contributed at different stages. We just need to find a way to turn things around quickly,” he added.