Indian leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal has addressed the rumors surrounding his separation from ex-wife Dhanashree Verma, firmly denying speculation of cheating and opening up about the emotional toll the breakup had on his life and career.
Speaking candidly, Chahal explained that there was no infidelity involved in the split. He said the breakdown of the marriage was driven by career pressures and growing distance, not betrayal. “I have never cheated in my life. People who know me know how much I value loyalty,” he said, dismissing the social media narratives that painted him in a negative light.
Chahal also revealed how deeply the separation affected his mental health. The leg-spinner admitted to going through a dark phase marked by anxiety, depression, and sleepless nights. “There were days when I barely slept two hours. I cried for hours and felt like I was carrying a weight I couldn’t shake off,” he confessed. At one point, the emotional burden became so overwhelming that he contemplated stepping away from cricket entirely to focus on recovery.
The 34-year-old acknowledged taking a brief break from the sport to regain his composure. During this time, he leaned on a small circle of friends who helped him navigate the emotional storm. While rumors linked him to close friend RJ Mahvash during the period, Chahal clarified that she was simply a source of support and not the cause of the breakup. He condemned the online speculation that tried to vilify her.
Reflecting on the split, Chahal admitted that both he and Dhanashree had tried to keep things private, maintaining a normal front while their relationship quietly dissolved. “We didn’t want to drag it into the public eye until the final step was taken. It was a peaceful decision, made with respect,” he said, expressing gratitude for the years they shared together.
The cricketer also revealed how the scrutiny and false narratives compounded his struggle. “Hearing people call you a cheater when you know the truth—it breaks you inside,” he said. His openness about experiencing mental health challenges highlights a side of professional athletes rarely discussed, shedding light on the emotional realities behind the fame.
Despite the turbulence, Chahal remains optimistic about moving forward. He credited the experience with teaching him resilience and a deeper understanding of mental wellness. He also emphasized that while the separation was painful, it did not diminish his respect for Dhanashree or the relationship they had built over the years.
As he prepares to return fully to cricket, Chahal’s story serves as a reminder of the human struggles that lie behind public personas. His willingness to speak openly about mental health and personal pain has struck a chord with fans and fellow players, challenging the stigma surrounding emotional vulnerability in professional sport.
For Chahal, the chapter marks both an end and a beginning—a difficult personal loss but also a moment of self-reflection and growth. His message was clear: loyalty remains his core value, and healing is as much a part of his journey as any success on the field.