[In pictures] “My heart will always be tied to this team”

Jaya Bhardwaj, the wife of cricketer Deepak Chahar, recently took to social media to express her deep gratitude towards the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Deepak’s former IPL franchise. This heartfelt tribute comes after Mumbai Indians (MI) secured Deepak’s services in the mega auction held on November 25.

Deepak Chahar joined CSK in 2018 and quickly became an integral part of the team until the 2024 season. In his time with the franchise, the 32-year-old pacer played 76 matches and took a total of 76 wickets. He contributed significantly to CSK’s IPL title wins in 2018, 2021, and 2023, showcasing his talent and dedication to the team.

One of the most memorable moments for Deepak and Jaya was during the 2021 season when Deepak proposed to Jaya in the stands in Dubai after a match against Punjab Kings. This special moment solidified their bond with CSK, and Jaya’s recent Instagram post reflects this sentiment as she wrote, “My heart will always be tied to this team. Forever grateful for the wonderful memories @chennaiipl.”

In addition to their emotional connection with CSK, Deepak and Jaya also celebrated their wedding on June 1, 2022, marking another significant milestone in their relationship.

Moving forward, Mumbai Indians made a notable acquisition by securing Deepak Chahar for a whopping ₹9.25 crore in the mega auction. With 81 IPL matches under his belt and 77 wickets to his name, Deepak brings a wealth of experience and talent to his new team. He has also represented India in 25 T20Is and 13 ODIs, showcasing his versatility and skill on the field.

Among the players retained by MI are star players like Jasprit Bumrah, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Rohit Sharma, and Tilak Varma, highlighting the team’s commitment to maintaining a strong core group of players.

The full list of players bought by Mumbai Indians includes notable names like Trent Boult, Naman Dhir, Robin Minz, Karn Sharma, Ryan Rickelton, and several others. With a mix of experienced players and emerging talent, MI is gearing up for a competitive and exciting season ahead.

As Deepak Chahar embarks on a new chapter with Mumbai Indians, fans eagerly anticipate his performance on the field and the impact he will make on his new team. With his skill, dedication, and past achievements, Deepak is poised to continue shining in the IPL and contributing to Mumbai Indians’ success in the upcoming seasons.