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'Get hit for 6 sixes': Yuzvendra Chahal recalls Virat Kohli’s unusual advice

In a surprising tactical twist from the 2015 IPL season, Royal Challengers Bengaluru spinner Yuzvendra Chahal revealed how Virat Kohli orchestrated a bold plan to dismiss Chennai Super Kings’ Suresh Raina. During a match between the two teams, Raina unleashed three consecutive sixes off Chahal’s deliveries, leaving the bowler under immense pressure.

Kohli, then RCB’s captain, instructed Chahal to deliberately allow Raina to hit another six, a strategy that initially seemed counterintuitive. Chahal followed the directive, and on the next ball, Raina overcommitted to another six, only for the ball to be caught at long-off, ending his innings.

The move proved effective, showcasing Kohli’s strategic brilliance and Chahal’s ability to execute unconventional plans under pressure. That season, Chahal took 23 wickets in 15 matches for RCB, marking his second-best wicket haul in a single IPL campaign at the time.

The incident, shared by Chahal in a podcast with former India opener Aakash Chopra, highlights a moment where calculated risk paid off. Kohli’s unconventional advice—letting Raina hit six sixes in an over—demonstrated his understanding of player psychology and the importance of adaptability in high-pressure situations.

Chahal’s execution of the plan not only resulted in a crucial wicket but also contributed to his standout performance in the 2015 season, where he maintained an economy rate of 8.86.

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