Punjab Kings’ ace spinner Yuzvendra Chahal missed his second consecutive Indian Premier League (IPL) match on Monday due to a finger injury, but there is optimism within the camp that he will be fully fit ahead of the all-important playoffs. The 33-year-old, who became the most expensive spinner in IPL auction history with a staggering Rs 18 crore price tag, sat out the team's final league match against Mumbai Indians, having also missed the previous clash against Delhi Capitals.

According to a BCCI source quoted by PTI, Chahal is on the mend and is expected to recover in time for the playoffs. His return would be a major boost for Punjab Kings, who have qualified for the knockout stages for the first time since their memorable 2014 campaign.