Mike Hesson explains decision to not retain Yuzvendra Chahal ahead of IPL 2022 auction

Former Royal Challengers Bengaluru director of cricket, Mike Hesson, recently opened up about the decision not to retain Indian spinner Yuzvendra Chahal ahead of the IPL 2022 season auction. Chahal, who achieved a historic milestone of 200 wickets in the IPL during the ongoing season, was not retained by RCB in order to secure both him and pacer Harshal Patel in the auction.

Hesson explained that the choice to not retain Chahal was made to give the team additional financial flexibility. “We didn’t retain Chahal because retaining just three players gave the team an extra four crore rupees to spend, through which we aimed to buy back both Chahal and Harshal Patel,” Hesson revealed.

However, RCB’s plans hit a snag during the auction when Chahal’s name came up late, coinciding with their pursuit of Sri Lankan spin all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga. The team prioritized Hasaranga when his name appeared earlier in the auction, ultimately missing out on Chahal.

Hesson expressed his frustration at missing out on Chahal, calling him an “outstanding bowler.” Chahal, who has played 153 IPL matches, achieved his 200th wicket during a clash against the Mumbai Indians, becoming the first bowler to reach this milestone.

Chahal has had successful stints with both the Mumbai Indians and RCB before joining the Rajasthan Royals in 2022. He continues to excel in his new role with the Royals, having claimed 61 wickets in 39 matches for the franchise.

As Chahal continues to make his mark in the IPL, fans eagerly await to see how he will further contribute to the success of his new team, the Rajasthan Royals.