Indian leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal has made a significant lifestyle change ahead of the upcoming Indian Premier League 2026 season, opting to give up alcohol entirely. The 35-year-old confirmed that he has abstained from drinking for over six months in a bid to improve his fitness, maintain peak performance, and extend his cricketing career.
Speaking candidly about his personal life and professional goals before joining Punjab Kings for the tournament, Chahal revealed the rationale behind this strict regimen. “I stopped drinking over six months ago. At 35, I want to stay fitter, perform better, and give 150 percent for the team. As a senior player, I also hope others in the IPL can learn from my approach,” he said during a YouTube interview with AB de Villiers.
Chahal’s last IPL season saw him deliver notable performances despite Punjab Kings falling short in the final. In the 2025 season, he played 14 matches and took 16 wickets. His bowling average stood at 26.87, with an economy rate of 9.55. He also recorded two matches where he claimed four wickets, underlining his match-winning potential.
| Matches Played | Wickets Taken | Bowling Average | Economy Rate | Four-Wicket Hauls |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 14 | 16 | 26.87 | 9.55 | 2 |
Reflecting on the team’s loss in the final, Chahal admitted that the absence of South African all-rounder Marco Jansen was a significant blow. “We missed Jansen in the final. If he had played, we definitely could have won the championship. His bowling was exceptional throughout the tournament, and he could have contributed with two or three crucial sixes in the closing overs,” Chahal explained.
The leg-spinner was also critical of his own performance, noting that injuries prevented him from bowling at his best in crucial matches. He suffered a rib injury in the match against KKR and later fractured a finger, which restricted his effectiveness in the semi-final and final. “I was disappointed with my own performance. This time, my priority is taking care of my body so I can contribute fully to the team,” he added.
Chahal’s commitment to fitness and abstinence from alcohol highlights his professionalism and dedication to cricket. With these lifestyle adjustments, he aims not only to elevate his own game but also to set an example for younger players in the squad. As the IPL 2026 season approaches, expectations are high that the senior spinner will deliver match-winning performances while maintaining peak physical condition.
This disciplined approach underscores the growing importance of fitness and lifestyle management in prolonging elite cricket careers and achieving sustained success on the field.