The renaissance of Yuzvendra Chahal in the IPL 2022 is getting considered one of the most significant developments in Indian cricket. Chahal, who was replaced by Rahul Chahar in India's 2021 T20 World Cup squad, seems to have got his mojo back as he currently occupies the top spot in the list of highest wicket-takers in the ongoing IPL season.
The former South African bowler Shaun Pollock believes that Chahal is a front runner in the race of spinners who desire to get a place in India's 2022 T20 world cup squad. Speaking to Cricbuzz, Pollock said that Chahal has worked extremely hard on his bowling, which is evident from his improved performances this season. Pollock also termed the Indian tweaker as a nice character and wished to see him back representing India in the mega event to be played in Australia later this year.
"There is no doubt Yuzi has got his form back. He's really starting to look the part again. You can see that little bounce in his step. He's got the deliveries coming out nicely," Pollock said.
"I would think he would be a firm favourite now to go to the T20 World Cup. I just like to see him back. He's just such a nice character. Spent a bit of time with him in Mumbai. He's so much fun. When things are going well on the field, it's such a nice package to have him in the team environment," he further added.
Chahal has been in fabulous touch in this year's IPL as he currently occupies the top spot in the list of highest wicket-takers, with 22 wickets from 11 games. His incredible form with the ball has been one of the major reasons behind RR's phenomenal performance this year.
India's call to exclude Chahal from the 2021 World Cup squad was criticised on a large scale. However, the former Proteas captain justified Chahal's non-selection in that world cup by stating that the experienced spinner was nowhere close to his best at the time of the team selection.
"In all honesty, Chahal wasn't anywhere near the right form when it came to the last World Cup. He was out of form; he was bowling flat deliveries. He wasn't confident to give it air. He had lost his mojo. That happens to you as individuals," the 48-year-old concluded.