[In Pictures] “It has been an honor” – Yuzvendra Chahal spends quality time with ‘Special Forces’

India cricketer Yuzvendra Chahal spent quality time with ‘Special Forces’ on Friday, August 9. During his special meet, the leg-spinner exchanged special mementos. He gave away his T20I jersey as a token of appreciation towards the security personnel.

Notably, Chahal was part of India’s 2024 T20 World Cup winning squad. The Rohit Sharma-led side beat South Africa by seven runs in the final to clinch their only second trophy in the ICC event.

Chahal expressed gratitude to the ‘Special Forces’ for their bravery in keeping the country safe. The 34-year-old wrote on his Instagram post:

“It has been an honor to spend time here in the esteemed company of these distinguished gentlemen. This experience is truly beyond words. The profound pride I feel as an Indian, being able to witness and share in the nation's honor is magnified by the presence of the brave men who dedicate their lives to keeping us safe. Jai Hind.”

Indian cricketers meeting the army or security personnel is a rare sight. However, former cricketers have actively participated in the army. Sachin Tendulkar was made an honorary group captain by the Indian Air Force in 2010. Meanwhile, MS Dhoni was made honorary Lieutenant Colonel, of the Parachute Regiment of the Indian Territorial Army in 2011.

The duo served as India captains, with Dhoni winning three ICC trophies, including the 2011 ODI World Cup with Tendulkar.

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“Hard to understand why” – Harbhajan Singh on Yuzvendra Chahal’s absence from Sri Lanka white-ball series

Former India cricketer Harbhajan Singh recently questioned the absence of Yuzvendra Chahal from Sri Lanka’s T20I and ODI squads after the leggie didn’t get to play any games at the 2024 T20 World Cup.

Harbhajan wrote on X:

“Hard to understand why @yuzi_chahal @IamAbhiSharma4 @IamSanjuSamson are not part of the Indian Team for Sri Lanka.”

Chahal is India’s leading wicket-taker in T20Is, picking up 96 wickets in 80 matches. He played his last T20I against West Indies in August 2023.

In ODIs, Chahal has 121 scalps in 72 games at an economy rate of 5.26. His last ODI was against New Zealand in January 2023.

Yuzvendra Chahal, who has the most Indian Premier League (IPL) wickets (205), is the favorites to be retained by the Rajasthan Royals (RR) ahead of the upcoming season.