Yuzvendra Chahal made an immediate impact on his debut for the Northamptonshire Steelbacks in the Metro Bank Cup, delivering a match-winning performance against his former county, Kent Spitfires. In a game played at Canterbury, the Indian leg-spinner took 5 for 14 in an unbroken 10-over spell, leading Northants to a dominant nine-wicket victory.
Chahal’s signing was only confirmed an hour before the match, but he wasted no time in proving his worth. His exceptional bowling display saw Kent skittled for a mere 82 runs in 35.1 overs. Chahal’s scalps included key batsmen, with his accurate leg-spin dismantling Kent’s batting lineup.
► Kent’s Collapse and Chahal’s Masterclass
After winning the toss and electing to bat, Kent’s decision backfired as they struggled from the outset. Justin Broad set the tone by taking 3 for 16, dismissing both openers cheaply. Chahal then took over, wreaking havoc in the middle order. Despite dropping a caught-and-bowled chance early on, Chahal quickly redeemed himself by stumping Ekansh Singh for 10.
16.1 | Yuzi strikes! 🌀
Chahal beats the bat of Singh and McManus produces some brilliant work behind the stumps. ⚡
Spitfires 49/5.
Watch live 👉 https://t.co/CU8uwteMyd pic.twitter.com/Mm1phl6dLZ— Northamptonshire Steelbacks (@NorthantsCCC) August 14, 2024
Chahal’s spell reached its peak when he trapped both Jaydn Denly and Beyers Swanepoel lbw in the same over, reducing Kent to a precarious 52 for 8. He continued to apply pressure, dismissing Grant Stewart and Nathan Gilchrist, ensuring Kent fell well short of a competitive total.
Kent’s top scorer, Jaydn Denly, could only manage 22 runs, highlighting the dominance of Chahal and Broad. Kent’s eventual total of 82 narrowly avoided being their lowest-ever List A score, a dubious record set in 1979.
► Northants Cruise to Victory
The chase was a mere formality for Northamptonshire, who knocked off the required runs in just 14 overs. Despite losing Prithvi Shaw for 17, James Sales (32 not out) and George Bartlett (31 not out) guided the team home with ease, sealing the victory with 216 balls to spare.
20.3 | So good. 🔥
Chahal gets a fourth as Stewart edges one to Prithvi. 🤝
Sptifires 52/8.
Watch live 👉 https://t.co/CU8uwteMyd pic.twitter.com/REUzvurbdn— Northamptonshire Steelbacks (@NorthantsCCC) August 14, 2024
Although the match held no significance in terms of knockout stage qualification, Chahal’s performance will be remembered as a standout debut. His ability to deliver under pressure, particularly against his former county, underscores his value to the Steelbacks as they look to rebuild for future campaigns.
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