Chahal's IPL 2026 Pledge: No Alcohol, Better Fitness, and a Title Mission With Punjab Kings

Yuzvendra Chahal has revealed a significant lifestyle change ahead of the upcoming Indian Premier League 2026 season, stating that he has stopped consuming alcohol for over six months to improve his fitness and performance. The veteran leg-spinner, who will represent Punjab Kings, shared the update during a recent podcast conversation with former South African cricketer AB de Villiers, highlighting his renewed focus on discipline and longevity in the sport.

Chahal, now 35, said the decision was part of his commitment to giving his "150 per cent" for the team and setting an example for younger players in the league. He emphasised the importance of maintaining peak physical condition as a senior player, especially in a highly competitive tournament like the IPL. His comments reflect a broader intent to lead by example, both on and off the field, as he prepares for another demanding season.

The spinner had a reasonably strong campaign in IPL 2025, playing a key role in Punjab Kings’ journey to the final. The team, led by Shreyas Iyer, finished as runners-up after suffering a narrow six-run defeat against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the title clash. Despite the disappointment, the campaign was seen as a major improvement for the franchise, with several players delivering impactful performances throughout the season.

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Reflecting on the final, Chahal pointed to the absence of Marco Jansen as a crucial factor in their defeat. He noted that Jansen’s all-round abilities, both with the ball and in the lower-order batting, could have made a decisive difference in the outcome. Chahal praised Jansen’s consistency during the tournament and expressed confidence in his contributions heading into the next season.

Chahal also opened up about his own struggles during the latter stages of the tournament, revealing that he was dealing with multiple injuries. He suffered a rib fracture during a match against the Kolkata Knight Riders, followed by a knuckle injury, which affected his ability to bowl effectively in the semifinal and final. These physical setbacks, he admitted, limited his performance at crucial moments of the competition.

Looking ahead to IPL 2026, Chahal has made it clear that fitness will be his top priority. Determined to overcome past setbacks, he aims to return stronger and perform at his highest level throughout the season. With renewed discipline, improved conditioning, and valuable experience, the seasoned spinner is focused on helping Punjab Kings mount another serious title challenge.

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