Yuzvendra Chahal, the Indian cricketer and former Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) player, recently spoke about his release from the RCB team ahead of the 2022 mega auction in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Prior to the 2022 edition, all teams, except the newcomers Gujarat Titans and Lucknow Super Giants, underwent significant squad changes due to the mega auction. This meant that franchises had to make tough decisions regarding player retention and release.
Chahal’s release from RCB came as a surprise to many fans and generated a lot of discussion on social media. Chahal had been an integral part of the RCB team since the 2014 edition of the IPL, playing 114 matches for the franchise. He had performed well, particularly at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, known for its small boundaries that often make it challenging for bowlers to restrict the batsmen.
Speaking on YouTuber Ranveer Allahbadiya’s podcast, Chahal revealed that there was a lack of communication between him and the RCB management during the process of his release. He mentioned that RCB had promised to buy him back in the auction but did not follow through on that commitment.
Chahal stated, “I played there for 8 years. RCB basically gave me the India cap, because they gave me chance to perform. From the very first match, Virat bhaiya showed me trust. So, it felt bad, because it almost feels family when you spend 8 years at a team. A lot of rumours came in, like I asked for huge amount of money. I clarified at the time that there wasn’t anything like that. I know what I deserve.”
“What I felt really bad about was there was no phone call, no communication. At least have a talk. I had played 114 matches for them. In auction, they promised me that they will go all-out for me. I said, fine. When I wasn’t picked there, I was very angry. I gave them 8 years. Chinnaswamy was my favourite ground. I didn’t talk to RCB coaches. The first match I played against them, I didn’t talk to anyone” stated the leg-spinner further.
Chahal also spoke about his transition from RCB to the Rajasthan Royals (RR) team and how the move helped him grow as a cricketer. Joining RR provided him with a fresh opportunity and a chance to prove himself in a different environment.
Chahal stated, “I realise the auction is a very unpredictable place. So, I made peace with the fact that whatever happens, happens for good. At RR, I started bowling at death. Often, my quota would be completed before 16 overs in RCB. So, I think I grew as a cricketer in RR as well. So, whatever happened, happened for good.”
Chahal’s departure from RCB after a long association with the franchise was unexpected, and he shared his disappointment with the lack of communication during the process. However, he expressed gratitude for the opportunity to play for the Rajasthan Royals and the personal growth it brought him.
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