Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan has opined that leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal’s performances have declined in the last few seasons in the IPL. Chahal is currently out of favor from the Indian team and was recently seen doing commentary stints.

The leg-spinner scalped 16 wickets in 14 matches in IPL 2025 at an average of 26.87 and an economy rate of 9.55. Chahal has all the experience under his belt and has snared 221 wickets in 174 IPL matches at an average of 22.71 and an economy rate of 7.96. The Haryana spinner is the highest wicket-taker in IPL history.

Irfan Pathan said on his YouTube Channel, “When he played for Bengaluru, his economy rate was around 7.50 on those tough pitches where bowling is challenging. Back in 2021, he was the highest wicket-taker there, but since then, his overall level and economy rate have dropped. The impact rule has also changed things, with batsmen playing a bit more fearlessly against him. But his skill remains the same. The difference is that last year his economy was 9.55, and over the past few years, his economy has gradually gone down, even though you would expect a player with so much experience to perform better.”

Pathan highlighted that Chahal hasn’t played consistently throughout the year and it could be one of the factors behind his downfall.

“One factor could be that he has not played regular cricket throughout the year. When that happens, if you are not playing regular cricket, especially international cricket, you can end up a bit sidelined mentally. That happens to every player. But we must remember that he is one of the most successful bowlers and a proven wicket-taker. Last year, in several matches, even in low-scoring games against Kolkata, he bowled exceptionally well and troubled their batsmen.”

The 2007 T20 World Cup final hero said Punjab Kings will expect a lot more from Chahal in the upcoming season.

“Focusing on economy, managing match time, and reading game situations before the season starts is very important, and Chahal needs to prepare accordingly. With an economy of around 9.50 from their main spinner, Punjab will expect a lot more from Chahal’s bowling.”

Punjab Kings will begin their IPL 2026 campaign against the Gujarat Titans at Mullanpur on 31st March.