Yuzvendra Chahal comes up with a huge revelation
Yuzvendra Chahal has shared that he has decided to give up alcohol as part of his preparation for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL 2026 season). The experienced leg-spinner spoke candidly about his personal life and mindset as he gears up to represent Punjab Kings (PBKS). After finishing as runners-up last season, the team will be aiming to go one step further this year, and Chahal appears determined to play a key role in that pursuit. Focusing on discipline and fitness, Chahal emphasized that he wants to enter the new season with renewed confidence and improved physical conditioning. His decision to adopt healthier habits reflects his commitment to maintaining peak performance throughout the tournament.
Yuzvendra Chahal reveals a huge secret about himself
Yuzvendra Chahal is also motivated by the team’s near-success last year and is eager to contribute more significantly in crucial moments. During the IPL 2025 season, Chahal delivered a steady performance, claiming 16 wickets across 14 matches. He maintained an average of 26.87 and an economy rate of 9.55, showcasing his ability to take important breakthroughs despite challenging conditions. Notably, he registered two impressive four-wicket hauls, underlining his match-winning potential.
“I've stopped drinking alcohol, and it's been more than six months. I am now 35, so I want to be more active and give my 150% for my team. As a senior player, I want people in the IPL to learn something from me," stated leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal.
Punjab Kings endured a heartbreaking finish in the previous Indian Premier League season, narrowly missing out on the title in the summit clash. They suffered a tense six-run defeat against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, a result that left players and fans deeply disappointed after an otherwise impressive campaign. The final proved to be a closely fought contest, with PBKS falling just short despite putting up a spirited performance under pressure.
Reflecting on the loss, Yuzvendra Chahal did not hide his frustration. The leg-spinner admitted that the defeat was difficult to process, especially given how close the team came to lifting the trophy. He highlighted that certain key factors played a role in the outcome, particularly the absence of Marco Jansen from the playing XI. According to Chahal, Jansen’s presence could have added balance to the side, both with the ball and in crucial moments of the game. Chahal suggested that having a player of Jansen’s caliber might have made a significant difference in such a tight contest. The loss, while painful, has also become a learning experience for the team as they look to come back stronger.
“In the final, we missed (Marco) Jansen as he was not there. If he were there, we would have definitely won the championship. The way he bowled throughout the tournament was brilliant, and batting too, he was capable of hitting two to three sixes in the end. We are even more confident now because of the way he is bowling. It's not going to be easy for the opposition openers," added Chahal.
Yuzvendra Chahal, now 35, openly acknowledged that he was not satisfied with his own performances in the previous season. The experienced leg-spinner admitted that he fell short of his own expectations and was unable to consistently perform at the highest level when it mattered most. Despite contributing in patches, Chahal felt that he could have done more to influence key moments and help his team achieve better results. Reflecting on his shortcomings, he expressed a sense of disappointment but also a strong determination to improve. Chahal emphasized that he has taken the time to assess his game carefully and identify areas where he needs to get better. With a renewed focus, he has committed himself to enhancing his fitness and overall preparation ahead of the next season.
“I was a bit disappointed with myself. After the KKR game, I had a rib fracture, and later, my knuckle got fractured. So in the semifinal and final, I wasn't able to bowl my proper leg-spin. This year, I want to take care of my body first," Chahal concluded.
