A renewed focus on discipline is shaping Yuzvendra Chahal’s approach heading into IPL 2026, with the veteran leg-spinner revealing a major lifestyle shift during a conversation on AB de Villiers’ YouTube channel as he looks to extend his career and reassert his impact.
Chahal confirms alcohol decision as part of fitness reset
Chahal has made a significant personal change in a bid to improve longevity and performance, particularly after a challenging period on and off the field.
“This year my mind has said that I will take care of my body first. And I have one good news for you, I stopped alcohol. It’s been more than six months. I am 35 now. I want to be more active and I want to give 150 percent for my team. As a senior bowler if I go to the IPL, I want people to see me and think ‘we have to learn something from him’,” Yuzvendra Chahal said on AB de Villiers’ YouTube channel.
The decision comes as the 35-year-old continues to rebuild after being out of India’s national setup since 2023, while also navigating a difficult phase in his personal life over the past year.
Injury setbacks shaped IPL 2025 performance
Despite playing a key role in Punjab Kings’ run to the IPL 2025 final, Chahal revealed he was not operating at full fitness during the decisive stages of the tournament.
“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,” he said.
Punjab Kings, led by Shreyas Iyer, reached only their second final in 17 years but fell short against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, losing by six runs after posting 184 for seven in response to 190 for five.
Numbers underline Chahal’s IPL legacy
Even amid setbacks, Chahal remains one of the league’s most consistent performers. He featured in 14 matches during IPL 2025, claiming 16 wickets at an economy rate of 9.56, while also becoming the tournament’s all-time leading wicket-taker.
Overall, he has taken 221 wickets across more than 170 matches since 2013, reinforcing his status as a central figure in Punjab Kings’ plans for the upcoming season.
IPL 2026 presents fresh opportunity
Punjab Kings are set to begin their IPL 2026 campaign on March 31 against Gujarat Titans, as they continue their pursuit of a maiden title since the league’s inception in 2008.
For Chahal, the upcoming season represents more than just another campaign. With renewed fitness priorities and a clearer mindset, the leg-spinner is positioning himself not only as a key performer but also as a senior figure expected to set standards within the squad.
