Indian cricket fans were treated to a delightful moment off the field recently, as a video emerged showing spinner Yuzvendra Chahal having a fun exchange with wrestler Sangeeta Phogat at a dance reality show’s wrap-up party. The clip, which quickly went viral on social media, captured Phogat playfully lifting and twirling Chahal, bringing smiles to many faces.
However, amidst the lightheartedness, Chahal also faced a setback in his cricketing career. He was not included in the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) central contracts for the year, raising questions about his position in the national team. This decision surprised many, including former cricketer Aakash Chopra, who expressed his belief that the BCCI might be considering other options for the leg-spinner role.
This development comes alongside a mix of inclusions and exclusions in the BCCI’s central contracts. While out-of-favor players like Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer were left out for neglecting participation in the Ranji Trophy, established stars like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli retained their top-tier contracts. Notably, Kishan’s absence from Ranji matches despite not being on national duty and Iyer’s unavailability for a crucial match for Mumbai despite being dropped from the Indian team played a role in their exclusion.
Chahal’s viral moment showcases his popularity beyond the cricket field. However, the BCCI’s decision casts a shadow of uncertainty over his cricketing future. It remains to be seen whether he can regain his place in the national team and continue to entertain fans both on and off the field.
The coming months will be crucial for Chahal as he strives to prove his mettle and potentially earn a place back in the national team. While the exclusion from the central contracts is a significant setback, it is not necessarily the end of the road for his cricketing career. With dedication and strong performances, he still has the opportunity to overcome this hurdle and reclaim his spot in the Indian team.