Chahal’s Debut Masterclass Powers Northamptonshire to Nine-Wicket Win
Northamptonshire Steelbacks, bolstered by the sensational debut of Indian leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal, cruised to a comprehensive nine-wicket victory over Kent Spitfires in the Metro Bank Cup at Canterbury.
Chahal, who joined the Steelbacks just hours before the match, wreaked havoc on the Kent batting lineup, claiming an impressive 5 for 14 in an unbroken 10-over spell. His victims included Kent’s top scorer, Jaydn Denly, who was dismissed for 22. Justin Broad also impressed with the ball, taking 3 for 16 as Kent were bundled out for a paltry 82 in 35.1 overs.
Northamptonshire’s chase was a mere formality, with James Sales (32 not out) and George Bartlett (31 not out) guiding their team to victory in just 14 overs. The win was a fitting end to a disappointing campaign for both sides, who failed to qualify for the knockout stages.
Despite the lack of a chance to advance, a healthy crowd of around 2,300 turned up at the Spitfire Ground to witness Chahal’s remarkable debut. Kent’s decision to bat first backfired spectacularly as they lost their first four wickets for just 15 runs. Chahal then took center stage, dismissing Ekansh Singh, Denly, and Beyers Swanepoel in quick succession to leave Kent reeling at 52 for 8.
Kent’s innings eventually ended on 82, their fourth-lowest score in List A cricket. Northamptonshire’s chase was equally impressive, with Shaw (17) the only batsman to fall. Sales and Bartlett cruised to the target, with Bartlett sealing the win with a six over cow corner.
Chahal’s performance was the highlight of the match, showcasing his exceptional skills and providing a glimpse of what he can bring to the Steelbacks in the upcoming season.
