MUMBAI— With the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) set to commence on March 28, Punjab Kings’ star leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal has made a significant revelation regarding his personal lifestyle and professional longevity. Speaking on South African legend AB de Villiers’ YouTube channel, Chahal disclosed that he has completely abstained from alcohol for the past six months. The veteran cricketer, who holds the record for the most wickets in IPL history, emphasized that this decision was driven by a desire to optimize his physical condition and ensure he can contribute “150 percent” to his team’s campaign in the upcoming tournament.
The 35-year-old spinner reflected on a challenging previous season where a series of untimely injuries hampered his effectiveness during the critical stages of the competition. Chahal shared that following a high-intensity match against the Kolkata Knight Riders, he suffered a debilitating hip injury, which was further compounded by a broken finger later in the tournament. These physical setbacks prevented him from bowling at his full potential during high-stakes matches like the Qualifiers and the Final. Realizing that his body required better care to sustain performance at the elite level, Chahal decided to pivot toward a more disciplined health regimen, prioritizing recovery and active lifestyle choices as he enters the mid-30s stage of his career.
Beyond his personal performance, Chahal highlighted his responsibility as a senior figure within the Punjab Kings locker room. He expressed a strong desire to lead by example, noting that younger players often look up to seasoned veterans for guidance on professionalism and career longevity. By committing to a sober and highly active lifestyle, Chahal hopes to inspire the next generation of cricketers to value their physical well-being early in their careers. As fans gear up for the start of the 19th edition of the IPL, the legendary spinner appears more focused and agile than ever, signaling a determined effort to extend his dominance as the league’s premier wicket-taker.
