Yuzvendra Chahal, once the backbone of India’s spin bowling attack, has had a career marked by significant highs and troubling lows. From rising to prominence in India’s limited-overs cricket to facing personal and professional challenges, his story is a mix of success, struggle, and perseverance.et, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.
A Meteoric Rise in Indian Cricket
Chahal’s rise to international cricket was fast and impressive. With his sharp turn, accuracy, and deceptive flight, he became an integral part of India’s bowling lineup, particularly in limited-overs formats. His exceptional performances in key matches, like the 2019 ICC World Cup, solidified his position as one of the top spinners in world cricket. His ability to consistently pick wickets and control the middle overs made him a vital asset for the team.
The T20 World Cup Snub and Subsequent Exclusion
However, the path forward was not as smooth. As India prepared for the 2021 T20 World Cup, Chahal was surprisingly left out of the squad, a decision that shocked fans and cricket experts alike. Even Virat Kohli, the then-captain, admitted that it was a tough call to leave out the spinner, acknowledging his critical role in the team. Despite his proven abilities, Chahal’s exclusion marked the beginning of a downward trend in his career.
After the World Cup, opportunities for Chahal with the national team began to diminish. He was not selected for major events like the 2022 Asia Cup and the 2022 T20 World Cup, as India shifted focus to younger spin options. This shift signaled a major turning point in Chahal’s international career, and his role with the national team became increasingly uncertain.
Personal Life: From Marriage to Separation
In December 2020, Chahal’s personal life seemed to be flourishing when he married Dhanashree Verma, a well-known choreographer and dentist. The couple’s relationship garnered significant media attention, and their love story was widely celebrated by fans. However, as time passed, reports surfaced suggesting that the couple faced difficulties, leading to their separation. In March 2025, it was confirmed that Chahal and Dhanashree had finalized their divorce after four years of marriage. The financial details of the separation revealed that Chahal had agreed to pay an alimony of ₹4.75 crore, with ₹2.37 crore paid upfront.
Current Form and Future Prospects
Despite the setbacks, Chahal continues to be a prominent figure in domestic cricket and the Indian Premier League (IPL). In the 2025 IPL season, Chahal was acquired by the Punjab Kings for ₹18 crore, showcasing that franchises still have faith in his abilities. His performance in the upcoming season will be pivotal in determining whether he can reclaim his spot in the Indian team.
Conclusion
Yuzvendra Chahal’s journey serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of professional cricket and personal life. From his rise as one of India’s top spinners to facing exclusion from the national squad, his career has had its share of challenges. However, his resilience and continued presence in domestic cricket suggest that Chahal is far from finished. As he navigates both personal and professional hurdles, cricket fans and experts alike will be eagerly watching his next steps, hoping for a resurgence that mirrors his early successes.