Yuzvendra Chahal reveals Alcohol Abstinence for 6 Months, says ‘I want to give 150 percent’

Add as a preferred source on Google

Yuzvendra Chahal has taken a firm stand by quitting alcohol completely, as the player revealed it recently.

In a heart-to-heart with former South Africa star AB de Villiers on his YouTube show, Chahal opened up about his transformative decision.

"I've stopped drinking alcohol, and it's been more than six months. I am now 35, so 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 said.

Chahal emphasized his priorities by adding, "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'."

As the all-time leading wicket-taker in IPL history with 221 wickets from 174 matches, Yuzvendra Chahal is preparing for an impactful IPL 2026 season with PBKS after their narrow final loss in 2025. Months back, while speaking to Mashable India, Chahal had shared his initial resolve.

'Virat Kohli is My Idol': Punjab Kings all-rounder Suryansh Shedge | Exclusive

"I have stopped alcohol completely for whole life, not even one drop (I drink). It has been four months," the cricketer stated at that time. Explaining the profound impact, he noted, "There comes a time when you feel it is enough, so you let it be. And I am feeling much better, looks like out of 35 years, I have lived my real life in these four months."

Previously viewed as a party animal, Chahal now enjoys non-alcoholic beverages like tea and masala tea at gatherings. This sobriety is closely linked to his mental health journey. Following his divorce from Dhanashree Verma in 2025, he battled severe depression, anxiety attacks, and even suicidal thoughts amid the immense pressure of professional cricket and personal life.

He has credited quitting drinking for bringing clarity, peace, and motivation for a sustained career. Chahal has also described alcohol addiction as a disease that requires proper support rather than stigma.

The 35-year-old India star will be featuring for Punjab Kings in the IPL 2026, as the last year's beaten finalists aim to go a place better this term.