'I can say that the old Yuzi is back' - Yuzvendra Chahal 'happy' with his bowling form, keen to resume IPL action

India and Royal Challengers Bangalore leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal is keen to get back in action as the Indian Premier League resumes in the United Arab Emirates from September 19. Chahal, who was not picked for India’s T20 World Cup squad after a slight dip of form this year, backed himself and went on to state that the “old Chahal” is back.

At the time of season suspension, Kohli’s RCB was situated at the third spot in the tally, with 10 points from seven fixtures. The 14^th edition of the league was marred by Covid-19 and had to be abruptly halted on May 4 owing to the increasing cases inside the bio-secure environment. With the second leg resuming in the emirates, Chahal remains confident about RCB continuing their good form from the first half.

“Obviously, the feeling was good. The heat was okay, I am happy with the way I bowled. I am pumped up, we are in a good position in the points table and we have a very good chance to stay at the top of the table. When you bowl well in the nets, you always feel good. I can say that the old Yuzi is back,” said Chahal in a video posted on the official YouTube channel of RCB.

The resuming league phase of the tournament is supposed to run until October 8, with the first qualifier scheduled on October 10. The Eliminator, second qualifier and the final will be played on October 11, 13 and 15, respectively. Incidentally, the T20 World Cup 2021 starts only two days after the IPL final.

At the time of season suspension, the Delhi Capitals occupied the top spot with 12 points in eight games, followed by MS Dhoni’s Chennai Super Kings and Royal Challengers Bangalore, who both are tied on 10 points. RCB will kickstart their campaign against Kolkata Knight Riders on September 20.

The Bangalore franchise is going to wear a changed look, with as many three new signings in Wanindu Hasaranga, Dushmanatha Chameera and Tim David coming in to replace Australian trio of Adam Zampa, Kane Richardson and Daniel Sams, who have pulled out of the remainder of the tournament. There is also a change in the backroom staff, as New Zealand’s Mike Hesson has taken charge from Simon Katich as the Team Head Coach.