Relaxed environment at RR and Shane Warne's blessings: Yuzvendra Chahal on his success in IPL 2022

Wily Indian leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal has attributed his success in the ongoing 15th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) to the relaxed environment at the Rajasthan Royals (RR).

Chahal, who was surprisingly not retained by the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) ahead of the mega-auction earlier this year, was picked by Rajasthan following intense bidding for INR 6.5 Crores.

Chahal's acquisition by Rajasthan proved to be a masterstroke as the right-arm wrist-spinner had led the attack with disdain so far.

Having taken 26 wickets in 14 league games, Chahal is the current holder of the coveted 'Purple Cap’, and he will have a chance to further strengthen his position at the top during the playoffs.

Speaking to the media ahead of RR's Qualifier 1 fixture against the Gujarat Titans (GT), Chahal credited his success to the calm environment in the dressing room. 

He also thanked the Royals' management for making him feel at home despite it being his first season with the franchise.

"I know it's just the first season here (at Royals) for me, but it feels like I've been playing here for many years. I'm really relaxed here mentally, and I believe the credit goes to the people here, who take really good care of me … it has really made me connect with the franchise at a different level," said Chahal.

Apart from the relaxed environment at RR, Chahal believes that the legendary Shane Warne's blessings played a massive role in his success this year.

"On the other hand, it's also special for me because Warne sir played for RR and was the first-ever Royal, and I think his blessings are with me. I feel like he's been watching me from above," he added.

Warne, who led Rajasthan to their maiden title in 2008, tragically passed away earlier this year due to a cardiac arrest.

The Royals celebrated the legendary leg-spinner's life in what was a heartwarming gesture during one of the fixtures earlier this season.

Chahal and RR will look to give a perfect tribute to Warne by claiming the title this time around.