Kamal Ghorui
CHANDIGARH: As the countdown to the new IPL season begins, Yuzvendra Chahal has struck a candid note, both about his team Punjab Kings’ ambitions and his own resurgence. After what he admits was a tough previous year marked by injuries and illness, the leg-spinner is entering the season with renewed purpose. Having battled health setbacks, Chahal revealed that the time away from cricket tested him both mentally and physically.Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW!“Last year wasn’t easy,” Chahal said during the team’s jersey launch event in Mohali. “With the support of my family, friends and the Punjab management, I’ve come through it. I’m feeling much healthier now.”
In a conscious effort to rebuild himself, Chahal has made lifestyle changes that underline his commitment to peak performance. He has given up alcohol, focused on better sleep, improved his diet and committed himself to consistent gym work. “I want to keep improving every year,” he added. “I may not promise specific results but I’ll give everything I have, on and off the field.”This phase also represents a mental reset for Chahal. “This is about being better than yesterday,” he said. “Helping youngsters, supporting teammates and giving my best. That’s what matters.” For Punjab Kings, last season was one of promise that fell just short. Chahal echoed that sentiment. “We played great cricket but missed it in the final moments,” he said. “This year, we’re more confident. The core group is intact, the atmosphere is positive and everyone is coming in with good form.”The team has already begun preparations with a 12-day camp in the coming days, aiming to finetune strategies and adapt to unpredictable home conditions.Despite being regarded as the lead spinner, Chahal was quick to emphasise collective strength over individual roles. “There’s no ‘main’ spinner. Wickets come through teamwork. Everyone contributes.”
