India’s champion leg-spinner in a candid statement that sent ripples through the cricketing community Yuzvendra Chahal opened the way for a significant lifestyle change in front of him IPL 2026 season. The Punjab Kings (PBKS) The star, who remains the leading wicket-taker in the history of the Indian Premier League, has admitted that he completely gave up alcohol to prolong his career and lead his franchise to their elusive maiden title.
Yuzvendra Chahal shares a big update ahead of IPL 2026
Speaking on the South African legend and former teammate’s YouTube show AB de VilliersChahal shared the motivations behind this drastic change. “I stopped drinking alcohol and it’s been over six months now,Chahal said.
At 35, the wily spinner is well aware of the physical demands of modern T20 cricket. “I I want to be more active and give 150% to my team. As a great player, I want people in IPL to learn something from me.” he added.
The move comes after a bitter IPL 2025 campaign. While breaking the long-standing playoff jinx to reach the finals under Punjab Kings Shreyas Iyerthey suffered a heartbreaking 6 run defeat Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in a summit clash. Chahal, despite finishing the season with 16 wickets, was plagued by injuries towards the end of the tournament.
Reflecting on the defeat, Chahal revealed that he suffered a rib fracture followed by a joint fracture after the game against KKR. “I couldn’t move my legs properly in the semi-final and final. This year, I want to take care of my body first“he noted.
Apart from personal fitness, Chahal mentioned the absence of the South African all-rounder Marco Jansen in the finale as a turning point. Jansen had to leave early for national duties, leaving a void in the PBKS lower order and pace attack.
“If he (Jansen) was there, we would definitely win the championship“,” Chahal concluded, highlighting Jansen’s ability to strike early with the ball and provide late-order cameos.
Also READ: ‘Sarpanch Sahab’ Shreyas Iyer unveils Punjab Kings jersey for IPL 2026.
Yuzi Chahal: The most expensive spinner in IPL history
Chahal’s commitment to fitness isn’t just about personal pride; it is about justifying the great trust and capital invested in it. During the IPL 2025 mega auction, Punjab Kings made history by securing the services of Chahal for a staggering ₹ 18 crore. This made him the most expensive spinner in IPL history, doubling the previous record Rashid Khan.
Entering IPL 2026 in peak physical condition, Chahal aims to pay the record-breaking bid. With over 221 IPL wickets to his name, he remains the gold standard for wrist spin in the league. PBKS is alert and stronger as it prepares for the upcoming season. Chahal could be the final piece of the puzzle for a team that rose to glory last year.
Also READ: Sanjay Bangar has named his playing XI for Punjab Kings for IPL 2026
