- August 2, 2025
It’s probably not very often you see a cricketer candidly address their demons, career setbacks, and feelings all in one setting. But Yuzvendra Chahal just did that, and people are talking. While India is in the midst of a tough Test series with England, Chahal made an unexpected appearance off the field – on a podcast, which he discussed never before. From a rare display of irritation from MS Dhoni, to navigating broken relationships, to being let down by the national selection committee, Chahal spoke fully. Let’s take a look at five aspects of his podcast appearance, which showed us that Chahal is much more than his spin.
When Even Captain Cool Lost His Cool
MS Dhoni and anger? It sounds like a contradiction—until Chahal brought up that T20I match in 2017. Imagine this: Chahal’s just spun a web around England with a sizzling 6/25—his finest haul yet, the kind of spell that makes highlight reels eternal. But even in the middle of a game-winning performance, he made one blunder—missing a run-out with both English batters at the same end.
Chahal recalled that moment vividly, saying, “That was the first time I ever saw Mahi bhai lose his cool right in front of my eyes.” That moment wasn’t just about cricket—it was about how even legends have limits. For Chahal, it was a sharp reminder that excellence doesn’t give you a pass on basics. And for fans, it was a rare peek behind the curtain of Dhoni’s leadership style.
A Spin Bowler’s Battle with Darkness
While his googlies confound batters on the field, Chahal’s personal life was growing out of hand, away from it. Speaking publicly for the first time, he revealed he was actively drinking through his depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation after separating from Dhanashree Verma.
It’s difficult to hear, especially from someone he normally only shows happy memes for on social media. “I was only sleeping two – three hours a day. He shared, “I kept telling my friends that my mind felt completely numb, like it was shut off from everything.” It took close friends to eventually step in and be able to bring him back.
Career Snubs and the Bench Life
Chahal was in the 2024 T20 World Cup squad, but he didn’t get to play a single game – that has to sting for someone who has taken over 200 international wickets. However, Chahal’s perspective on being on the bench was surprisingly mature.
“If the team is winning, what do you want?” he said. That is an interesting outlook, in particular for a player who has to be on the bench, while bowlers who shouldn’t be playing according to their experience are. He said it hurt at first, but he got better at focusing on things outside of his control.
Wearing His Message (Literally) at Divorce Court
One of the podcast’s most surprising reveals? That infamous “Be Your Sugar Daddy” T-shirt Chahal wore to his divorce hearing. Yep, it wasn’t random—it was intentional.
“I didn’t abuse anybody. I just delivered a message,” he said. Something had happened on the other side, and this was his way of saying, I’m finished with my silence—shallow, powerful, and a bit poetic. Sometimes, a graphic tee says more than a speech in a courtroom.
So, will Chahal make a full comeback in the Indian squad? Maybe. But after hearing his story, one thing’s for sure—he’s already won something bigger than a match: perspective.
Which side of Chahal surprised you the most—his honesty, his humor, or his humility? Let’s talk.
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