Ahead of the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) season, Indian leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal has made significant changes to his lifestyle to enhance his fitness and overall performance. The 35-year-old cricketer revealed that he has completely abstained from alcohol for over six months, a decision aimed at maintaining peak physical condition and contributing fully to his team.
Chahal, who will represent Punjab Kings in the upcoming season, opened up about both his personal life and professional goals in a candid interview with former South African cricketer AB de Villiers on YouTube. Reflecting on his career and current priorities, he stated, “I have given up alcohol, and it has been over six months. At 35, I want to remain active and give 150 percent for the team. As a senior player, I hope others in the IPL learn from my approach.”
Despite a strong performance in the previous season, Chahal’s team fell short in the final, losing to Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). The spinner admitted that the absence of South African all-rounder Marco Jansen in the final significantly affected the team’s prospects. “We missed Jansen in the final. Had he played, we would certainly have been champions. His bowling was outstanding throughout the tournament, and he could have contributed crucial late runs,” Chahal remarked.
Chahal also expressed dissatisfaction with his own performances in the crucial stages, citing injuries that hampered his bowling effectiveness. A rib injury sustained during a match against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), followed by a finger fracture, prevented him from executing his best leg-spin in the semi-final and final. “I was disappointed with my performance. My injuries affected my ability to bowl at full capacity, and this season my priority is taking care of my body first,” he explained.
A summary of Chahal’s IPL 2025 performance is presented below:
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Matches Played | 14 |
| Wickets Taken | 16 |
| Bowling Average | 26.87 |
| Economy Rate | 9.55 |
| Four-Wicket Hauls | 2 |
| Team Achievement | Runners-up |
Chahal’s commitment to fitness and abstaining from alcohol reflects his determination to set an example for younger teammates while maximising his own contributions on the field. His disciplined approach highlights the increasing emphasis on personal health and longevity in professional cricket, especially for senior players looking to sustain performance levels in high-intensity tournaments like the IPL.
As the 2026 season approaches, observers expect Chahal’s renewed focus and physical preparation to positively influence Punjab Kings’ campaign, making him a pivotal figure both on and off the pitch. His lifestyle changes signal a mature, professional approach that could inspire a new generation of cricketers to prioritise fitness alongside skill.