In a candid revelation that has sent waves through the cricketing community, India’s champion leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal has opened up about a significant lifestyle change ahead of the IPL 2026 season. The Punjab Kings (PBKS) star, who remains the leading wicket-taker in the history of the Indian Premier League, confessed that he has completely given up alcohol in a bid to extend his career and guide his franchise to their elusive maiden title.

Yuzvendra Chahal shares big update before IPL 2026

Speaking on the YouTube show of South African legend and former teammate AB de Villiers, Chahal shared the motivations behind this drastic shift. “I’ve stopped drinking alcohol, and it’s been more than six months now,” Chahal stated.

At 35, the wily spinner is acutely aware of the physical demands of modern T20 cricket. “I want to be more active and give my 150% for my team. As a senior player, I want people in the IPL to learn something from me,” he added.

The move comes after a bittersweet IPL 2025 campaign. While Punjab Kings broke their long-standing playoff jinx to reach the final under the leadership of Shreyas Iyer, they suffered a heart-wrenching 6-run defeat to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the summit clash. Chahal, despite finishing the season with 16 wickets, was plagued by injuries during the business end of the tournament.

Reflecting on the loss, Chahal revealed he was playing through the pain of a rib fracture sustained after a game against KKR, followed by a knuckle fracture. “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 noted.

Beyond personal fitness, Chahal pinpointed the absence of South African all-rounder Marco Jansen in the final as the tipping point. Jansen had to depart early for national duties, leaving a void in the PBKS lower order and pace attack.

“If he [Jansen] were there, we would have definitely won the championship,” Chahal conluded, highlighting Jansen’s ability to strike early with the ball and provide late-order cameos.

Also READ: ‘Sarpanch Sahab’ Shreyas Iyer headlines Punjab Kings’ jersey launch for IPL 2026

Yuzi Chahal: Most expensive spinner in the history of IPL

Chahal’s commitment to fitness is not just about personal pride; it is about justifying the immense faith and capital invested in him. During the IPL 2025 mega auction, Punjab Kings scripted history by securing Chahal’s services for a staggering ₹18 crore. This made him the most expensive spinner in the history of the IPL, doubling the previous record held by Rashid Khan.

By entering IPL 2026 in peak physical condition, Chahal aims to repay the record-breaking bid. With over 221 IPL wickets to his name, he remains the gold standard for wrist-spin in the league. As PBKS prepares for the upcoming season, a sober and stronger. Chahal could be the final piece of the puzzle for a team that came within one hit of glory last year.

Also READ: Sanjay Bangar names his playing XI of Punjab Kings for IPL 2026