Team India’s veteran spin bowler Yuzvendra Chahal made a bold revelation ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. The 35-year-old, who hasn’t featured in the senior Indian cricket team for a long time since 2023, opened up on why he quit alcohol for more than six months.
Chahal was part of the Shreyas Iyer-led Punjab Kings (PBKS) team that narrowly missed the opportunity in last year’s final to clinch its maiden IPL title.
Over the past few months, the leg-spinner has put in a lot of efforts to rebuild himself and alter his lifestyle.
Why Yuzvendra Chahal Quit Drinking?
After suffering from fitness issues, Yuzvendra Chahal decided to improve his body condition and stopped drinking alcohol to set the best example for the young generation of players.
Here is what the Punjab Kings spin bowler had to reveal during the podcast with the former South African skipper AB de Villiers:
“Yes! It has been more than six months since I gave up consuming alcohol. Currently, I am 35 years old, and all I need to ensure is to give the best contribution to my team. Players in IPL should learn from me, and this is what I expect as a senior cricketer.
To be honest, I was disappointed with myself during the last IPL season. After the match against the Kolkata Knight Riders, I suffered from fractures in my ribs and knuckles. It was indeed a tough phase where I failed to bowl well in the semi-final and final.
So, I decided to be cautious and provide extra care to my body this year. It’s important to improve myself every year.
Although I may not be able to promise specific outcomes, I’ll make sure to give the best on and off the field, Chahal said.
Yuzvendra Chahal’s Efforts to Change His Lifestyle
Chahal has made certain changes to his lifestyle. He is committed to exhibiting a peak performance for his side in the forthcoming season.
Here is what the experienced spinner had to say during the PBKS jersey launch event in Mohali:
“Certainly! This season, the instructions from my mind are clear. First, you need to take care of my body so that I can be more active and give the 150% best to my team.
The previous season was indeed very tough. Somehow, I managed to overcome the difficulties. Thanks to the support given by family, friends, and the management of the Punjab Kings. I feel much healthier now than ever before.
It’s all about how I give my best not only in terms of on-field performance, but also help youngsters and support teammates,” Chahal added.
Several reports revealed that Chahal not only gave up alcohol but also focused on staying consistent with his performances by embracing healthy lifestyle activities such as:
- Better Sleep
- Improvized Diet Plans
- Regular Gym Works
- Yoga and Meditation
- And so on…
PBKS Felt Marco Jansen’s Absence in IPL 2026 Final: Chahal Reveals Unknown Facts
Furthermore, Yuzvendra Chahal pointed out the South African all-rounder Marco Jansen’s absence as the core reason behind PBKS 6-run loss in IPL 2025 final:
“Definitely! Things could have been different if Jansen had been there. We could have won our maiden IPL championship title last year. Unfortunately, he was not there in a highly crucial match.
The way Marco bowled and batted throughout the tournament was exceptional. His handy contribution and ability to smash two to three sixes out of the park in the last overs were exceptional.
Now, our confidence levels are bolstered because of his improved bowling style. I can certainly say that the opponent openers will have a tough time facing his bowling attack.
Even though we played a great level of cricket, we missed it narrowly in the last moment. However, this year we enter with a high level of confidence. Our core group is strong, and there is a positive atmosphere surrounding it, and every player will certainly come out in their peak form,” Chahal said to AB de Villiers.
Is Chahal the Lead Spinner of PBKS?
There is no doubt that Yuzvendra Chahal has been the core specialist spin bowler of the Punjab Kings. However, the talented spinner disregarded the fact by emphasizing strong teamwork over individual performances. Here is what Team India’s bowling stalwart had to convey:
“See! There is no main spinner in PBKS. The wickets bagged come through proper teamwork. Everyone contributes in the best possible way for their team,” Chahal added.
Also Read: IPL vs PSL Debate: Former Pakistani Batter Ahmed Shehzad Hails IPL Superiority Over PSL
Overall Opinion
It’s worth mentioning that Chahal is the leading wicket-taker in IPL history, having claimed 221 wickets in 174 matches at an average of 22.76 and an economy of 7.96.
The PBKS spinner, despite his injury struggles in the last season, played a pivotal role for his team’s strong campaign as he bagged 16 wickets in 14 matches. In conclusion, Chahal’s sudden change in lifestyle is more than just physical fitness. The forthcoming IPL season gives the veteran bowler another chance to impress selectors with noteworthy performances and push for a stronger comeback into the Indian team.
