RCB’s Decision to Release Chahal: A Strategic Gamble with Mixed Results
Former Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) director of cricket, Mike Hesson, has shed light on the franchise’s decision to release leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal ahead of the IPL 2022 season auction. Chahal, who recently achieved the historic milestone of 200 IPL wickets, was a key member of RCB for eight seasons.
Hesson explained that the decision to not retain Chahal was primarily driven by financial considerations. By retaining only three players, RCB gained an additional four crore rupees to spend in the auction, which they hoped to use to acquire both Chahal and pacer Harshal Patel.
However, RCB’s plans were disrupted when Chahal’s name emerged late in the auction, coinciding with their pursuit of Sri Lankan spin all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga. RCB prioritized Hasaranga, who was available earlier in the auction, and inadvertently missed out on Chahal.
“Yuzi (Chahal) is one I will be frustrated with until I have finished my career and probably beyond. He is an outstanding bowler,” Hesson admitted.
Chahal’s departure from RCB has been a mixed bag for both the player and the franchise. Chahal has continued to excel with the Rajasthan Royals, claiming 61 wickets in 39 matches. RCB, on the other hand, have struggled to find a consistent replacement for Chahal, with their spin attack often proving to be a weak link.
Despite the strategic rationale behind Chahal’s release, Hesson acknowledged that it was a difficult decision to make. “It’s a tough one because you’re losing a quality player,” he said. “But at the end of the day, you have to make decisions that you think are best for the team.”
