‘With India touring England next year, I wanted to show how good I am’ - Yuzvendra Chahal on county stint

Star spinner Yuzvendra Chahal failed to retain his place in the T20I team after World Cup success and was also not considered for selection for the recently concluded Duleep Trophy. He instead decided to play for Northamptonshire in County Cricket Division II, in which, the spinner picked up 19 wickets in four matches, which includes a five-for against Kent.

Speaking about his success and motivation behind playing county cricket, Chahal explained that he was eager to prove a point and fight for a place in the Indian Test team. With Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav available for selection, Chahal could never crack into the Test squad but he wants to remain in the race for the upcoming England series, which will begin in June 2025.

“County cricket is tough cricket. It gave me an opportunity to showcase my skills against a very good standard of cricket. With India touring England next year, I wanted to show how good I am," Chahal told The Times of India.

Also Read - Yuzvendra Chahal posts heartfelt Instagram post for wife Dhanashree on 28th birthday

He also thanked Rajasthan Royals coaches for introducing him to youngster Krish Patel, who is only 18 years old. He also expressed his gratitude towards Brindon, who gave him a break in the county championship.

“Firstly, I am very grateful to Brindon sir who gave me an opportunity to play in County cricket, and then the Rajasthan Royal's coaches introduced me to Krish Patel, a highly-educated 18-year old cricketer who is thought to have a very bright future in the game. I want to see him play internationally and if I can help, I am always there,” he added.

Chahal will next feature for Haryana in the upcoming Ranji Trophy. He will be eager to keep up with the momentum as the tournament will decide if he will be considered for the Test series against England. Currently, he is nowhere in the scheme of things as far as Test cricket is concerned.