Yuzvendra Chahal, the ace spinner of Punjab Kings, could not turn up during his team's 7-wicket win over Mumbai Indians in Jaipur on Monday. The win helped PBKS top the IPL 2025 standings. It was the second consecutive game that Chahal missed. Earlier, he did not play the game against Delhi Capitals on May 24.

Chahal, who picked up 14 wickets in 11 innings, is currently nursing a finger injury. But there is growing optimism within the PBKS camp as he is expected to regain his fitness ahead of the important Qualifier 1 on May 29.

The 33-year-old became the most expensive spinner in the IPL auction as PBKS acquired him for Rs 18 crore.

According to a PTI report, Chahal is working hard to recover from the injury. He last played against Rajasthan Royals on May 18 when he went wicketless. Chahal's recovery is important for PBKS as they have qualified for the playoffs for the first time since their memorable 2014 campaign.

In Chahal's absence, the franchise tried out left-arm spinner Harpreet Brar, who delivered commendable performances, claiming 14 wickets in 12 matches at an average of 25.28 and an economy rate of 9.56. His tally includes two four-wicket hauls, further proving his growing value to the side in Chahal's absence. This could also add to PBKS's headache before the playoffs.

As their league stage campaign is over, PBKS will head to Mullanpur, which will host both Qualifier 1 and the Eliminator. The team, riding high on momentum, will be hoping for a strong showing in front of their home crowd as they aim for their maiden IPL title.