Team India leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal has finally broken his silence on the controversy surrounding his ex-wife, Dhanashree Verma. The cricketer addressed her recent remarks made during a popular reality show, which quickly sparked social media debate.

Dhanashree had alleged that Chahal was unfaithful just two months after their marriage, a statement that stirred widespread reactions among fans and followers. Her comments painted a troubling picture of their short-lived relationship, drawing significant public attention. Chahal, however, firmly dismissed the accusations, calling them “false and disappointing.” 

The leg-spinner expressed his frustration over personal matters being discussed publicly and urged everyone to respect boundaries. He emphasized his focus remains on cricket and maintaining professionalism, rather than being dragged into controversies surrounding his personal life. While talking to Hindustan Times, Yuzi said, “ I am a sportsperson, and I do not cheat.”

See Also: ‘A player like him doesn't deserve…’- Former India player advised Rohit Sharma to retire gracefully and preserve his dignity

Yuzvendra Chahal Dismisses the Claim Made by Dhanashree Verma:

Yuzvendra Chahal and Dhanashree Verma tied the knot in December 2020 in Gurugram after first connecting during the Covid-19 lockdown. Their friendship began when Chahal enrolled in Dhanashree’s online dance classes, and the two soon developed a close bond.

However, after living separately since 2022, the couple officially filed for divorce in February 2025. The Bombay High Court expedited the process by waiving the standard cooling-off period, enabling the separation to be finalized before the start of the IPL 2025 season. Their decision marked the end of a much-discussed chapter in the cricketer’s personal life.

Yuzi said, “ Agar koi two months mei hi cheat karta toh itna lamba relationship chalta kya? (If someone had cheated within just two months, would the relationship have lasted this long?) For me, this chapter is over, done and dusted. I have moved forward with my life, and everyone else should too.”

He further said, “ Hamari shadi 4.5 years thi. Agar two months mei cheat hua hota toh kaun continue karta? Mai pehle bhi bol chuka hun ki mai past se nikal chuka hun. (Our marriage lasted four and a half years. If cheating had happened within two months, who would have continued? I’ve already said before that I’ve moved on from the past.)”

He added, “ But some people are still stuck there. Abhi bhi kai log uss cheez ko pakde hue hain, abhi bhi unka ghar mere naam se chal raha hai toh (Even now, many people are still holding on to that issue, and their household is still running in my name), they can continue doing that. I am not concerned or affected. And I have a feeling this is the last time I am addressing that chapter of my life.”

He concluded, “ Mai iss chapter ko bhula chuka hun. Koi kuch bhi keh deta hai, and social media pe chal jata hai. 100 baatein chalti hain (I’ve moved on from this chapter. People say all sorts of things, and it spreads on social media. A hundred different stories start circulating), but the truth is only one, and those who matter know it. Mere liye chapter closed hai (For me, that chapter is closed). I don’t want to address it ever again. I am focusing on my life and my game.”

The 35-year-old last represented India in 2023 and was part of the 2024 T20 World Cup squad, though he didn’t feature in any matches. At present, he is not considered a part of the team’s immediate plans.

Dhanashree Verma, former wife of Indian cricketer Yuzvendra Chahal, has been making several accusations against him on the OTT reality show “Rise and Fall.” The couple got divorced on March 20, 2025, after the Bandra family court in Mumbai approved their joint petition for mutual consent. They were married in December 2020 but had been living separately since June 2022.

Amid the controversy, Chahal appeared in a funny reel with his close friend and former India opener Shikhar Dhawan. In the video, a voice in the background says, “We’ll get you married, son. Let me get married first.” The clip shows Dhawan acting as Chahal’s father, creating a light-hearted moment that quickly went viral on social media.

Chahal looks surprised in the video and asks, “Papa, are you married?” Dhawan’s girlfriend, Sophie Shine, then appears, and Dhawan jokes, “This is your third mother.” Chahal, shocked and holding his head, reacts in disbelief while Dhawan offers him something to eat. The fun exchange left fans amused and brought some humor amid the tense headlines surrounding Chahal’s personal life.

Dhawan’s New Chapter and Chahal’s Cricket Comeback

Shikhar Dhawan announced retirement from all forms of international and domestic cricket on August 24, 2024. He has since been busy with many Legends leagues across the globe. He became news recently by deciding against playing against Pakistan in World Championship of Legends in England, evidencing his hardline national approach.

Watch the video here

 

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by Shikhar Dhawan (@shikhardofficial)

See Also: Rahul Dravid’s son named Karnataka U-19 captain in Vinoo Mankad Trophy

Meanwhile, Yuzvendra Chahal is focusing on making his return to the Indian team. The IPL’s highest wicket-taker last played international cricket in August 2023. For Punjab Kings last season, he took 16 wickets in 14 matches at an average of 26.88. The 35-year-old now aims to perform well in domestic cricket and earn his comeback.

On the reality show Rise and Fall, actress Dhanashree Verma has spoken openly about her divorce in a candid step with the Indian leg spinner, Yuzvendra Chahal. The actress addressed the speculation and denied making the claims about demanding alimony, which reflected on their four-year-long marriage.

Verma is currently competing on the reality show and revisited her split with the Indian spinner and revealed that rumors about alimony were untrue. During the show, he discussed with the host and the Bollywood singer, Aditya Narayan.

See Also: [WATCH] Waqar Younis's funny reaction in trying to replicate Wanindu Hasaranga's celebration during PAK vs SL Super 4 clash

“Officially, it has been almost a year. It happened quickly because it was mutual, that’s why when people say alimony, it’s wrong. Just because I am not saying anything, you will go on saying anything? My parents have taught me to only justify to people whom I care about. Why waste time explaining those who don’t even know you?” Dhanashree Verma expressed during a recent interaction.

Watch: Dhanashree Verma reveals story of alimony from Yuzvendra Chahal

Chahal has picked up 121 wickets in 69 innings during the ODI format at an average of over 27, a strike rate of 30, and an economy rate of over five. In the shortest format of the game, the leg spinner has collected 96 wickets in 79 innings at an average of 25.09 and a strike rate of 18.3, along with an economy rate of over eight. His wife opened up about the tough times during the tough period.

Dhanashree Verma About Taking 60cr Alimony Rumours from Yuzvendra Chahal 😨 pic.twitter.com/W79BXAB0gd

— Jeet (@JeetN25) September 25, 2025

“We were married for four years; we dated 6-7 months before that. Eventually, you get hurt when you see that happening. It was not needed. None of it is true. I felt worse wondering why he did it. It’s okay, I will always keep his respect, that is what I believe in. Now, I don’t think I can date anybody.” Dhanashree Verma, appearing on the reality show ‘Rise and Fall,' addressed.

“I have never said anything against anyone on the show, yet I never dragged my personal life on the show. I am told I am getting influenced, but that’s not true; I don’t like this environment.” Verma concluded on the entire incident.

Dhanashree Verma again made some explosive claims after separating from star Indian cricketer Yuzvendra Chahal. During a program, Verma loudly claims that she is still standing firmly because she has talent. She is pretty open about his life after divorce from Chahal. During the program she said that despite a setback in personal life, there are plenty of opportunities to work in the industry. Dhanashree also claimed that she is getting multiple Bollywood movies and projects after the divorce also.

Dhanashree Verma and Yuzvendra Chahal got married in 2020, and in March 2025, they decided to divorce. According to media reports, Chahal paid around INR 4.75 crore in alimony. The incident created controversy around social media platforms. Some claimed Chahal was responsible for the situation, while some were against Verma. 

Dhanashree Verma, born on 27 September 1996 in Dubai, UAE, is a multi-talented personality. She is a well-known choreographer, dancer, and YouTuber and also a dentist. She gained a massive appreciation by choreographing the popular song 'Vaathi Coming' from the Tamil film Master. After the separation, she focused on the career that she mentioned during the program. 

Read More: [WATCH] 'Best...'- Rinku Singh on camera talks about greatness of Rohit Sharma

Latest statements made by Dhanashree Verma 

"Dude, I'm standing here. The whole world is against me today. I'm standing here and working and getting work. People are still giving me work. I also mentioned it in my podcast. I love the industry because people are still giving me work, not because of what has happened... I'm getting offers for movies and projects because I have talent. So if I don't stand up for myself, it has nothing to do with experience," Dhanashree said loudly. 

Dhanashree : I'm getting multiple bollywood films and projects after divorce alsopic.twitter.com/ITyEhFSwYv https://t.co/w6AEvzh4ds

— Jeet (@JeetN25) September 9, 2025

Like Verma, Chahal too is trying to move on from the past incident. After a setback, he chose IPL 2025 as the stage to mark his comeback. With Punjab Kings, Chahal contributed with his spin and experience brilliantly, helping Punjab Kings to qualify in the final of IPL 2025, where they lost against Royal Challengers Bengaluru. 

The famous choreographer, Dhanashree Verma, separated from the Indian leg spinner, Yuzvendra Chahal, as it remained one of the most discussed controversies in the ongoing year. Since the divorce case, she had been subjected to ongoing trolling with many unfairly calling her a ‘gold digger.’

Amidst all the ups and downs during a tough period in her life, Verma has now been seen in the reality show called Rise and Fall, where she candidly opened up about her marriage and the backlash she faced. She revealed how she decided to go for dignity over negativity, besides taking a dig at India spinner Chahal and the trolls in the show.

See Also: Star Pakistan pacer retires from international cricket at age of just 31

“When you are married, you also hold the responsibility of safeguarding your partner’s respect. If I wanted, I could have disrespected him, too. Don’t think I have anything to say as a woman — I do. But he was my husband. I respected him during our marriage, and even now, I continue to respect the fact that he was my husband.” A clip from a show where Verma expressed her feelings.

Watch: Dhanashree Verma hits out at Yuzvendra Chahal on divorce case and tolls

Chahal hasn’t gone through a special time with the ball in his cricket career. He hasn’t featured for the national side for several years and is struggling to find the old rhythm with the ball. In 79 innings, the leg spinner has picked up 96 T20I wickets at an average of 25.09 and an economy rate of 8.19.

Dhanashree ne kiya apne past ko yaad😮#RiseAndFall, co-powered by @Lux_Innerwear
Official Lighting Partner: @orient_electric
AI Home Partner: @indiahaier
Official Health Partner: @pintolaofficial pic.twitter.com/YQgpbd3FIu

— Amazon MX Player (@MXPlayer) September 8, 2025

“I am standing here. The whole world is against me, but I am standing here and getting work done today. I had said this earlier, too. I love the industry because people are still giving me work. I am getting movies, not because of what has happened, but because I have talent. So if I don't stand up for myself, it has nothing to do with experience. It is to do with intent.” Verma addressed.

Dhanashree’s remarks not only highlight her composure but also display her incredible ability to handle the negativity sharply. Chahal didn’t go through a strong and dominating season for the Punjab Kings when they finished as the runners-up in the 2025 season of the Indian Premier League (IPL).

After the separation of Yuzvendra Chahal and Dhanashree Verma, discussions about their divorce have remained a frequent topic of conversation. The news has sparked debates across social media, with both sides sharing glimpses of their perspectives.

Chahal was the first to shed light on the matter when he spoke about certain aspects of the split during a podcast. Not long after, Dhanashree offered her own version of events, providing fans with more insight into the situation. As expected, the divided opinions of supporters and critics followed each revelation.

During this phase, Dhanashree got surprising support from Devisha Shetty, wife of Suryakumar Yadav. Devisha’s gesture came as a surprise to many, as she openly showed support for Dhanashree in the midst of constant online trolling. This backing highlighted the importance of empathy and solidarity, especially during challenging personal times faced by public figures.

See Also: BCCI Secretary addresses rumours surrounding Shreyas Iyer as new ODI captain

Devisha Shetty Backs Dhanashree Verma:

Devisha Shetty took to Instagram to applaud Dhanashree Verma for bravely opening up about her divorce on the podcast ‘Humans of Bombay’. In her post, she admired Dhanashree’s bravery for speaking openly despite ongoing public judgment. Devisha’s supportive post quickly drew attention, sparking further conversations across social media platforms about solidarity and strength.

In her story, she wrote, “ So much respect and love for you.”

Several Reddit users responded to the post, offering their own thoughts and opinions on the matter. While some expressed support and appreciation, others shared different viewpoints, sparking a wider conversation around the story and its impact on social media discussions. 

One of them wrote, “ Good that SKY's wife is standing up for her , clearly she knows more than we do.”

Another user wrote, “ Idk who was wrong but after divorce yuzi was being so immature (that tshirt thing and going on podcast and telling just bad things to dename) but Dhanshree handled it well At least respect the relationship both had.”

Dhanashree Verma Shares Emotions on Navigating Divorce:

During the podcast, Dhanashree revealed that she broke down in tears when the court officially declared the divorce verdict, confirming their separation. She described the moment as overwhelming and emotional, expressing how difficult it was to process the reality of her marriage ending despite preparing herself for the outcome.

She said, “ I genuinely feel that the day it actually happened, it was very emotional for me and my family. I still remember when I was standing there and the verdict was about to be given, even though you are so mentally prepared that it is going to happen, it was still so emotional. I literally started howling and crying in front of everybody. I cannot even express what I was feeling at that point of time.”

She further said, “ He walked out first, that whole thing happened with the T-shirt and media, and I wasn't aware about it because I was still inside. I got out from the back gate because I was not liking that. It was just very sad, you don't want cameras all over your face. Humko kuch nahi bataana tha, I was wearing a normal t-shirt and jeans. I sat in the car, my best friend was there with me, and we were still trying to grasp our breath. It was that shaky moment, especially when you know people will blame you only.”

Indian leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal’s ex-wife, Dhanashree Verma, recently took a swipe at the cricketer over a T-shirt he wore during their divorce proceedings. The T-shirt, which carried the slogan “be your own sugar daddy,” quickly went viral online and stirred reactions. Dhanashree, while speaking on the Humans of Bombay podcast, criticized Chahal for what she called a “stunt” during such a sensitive period. She revealed how the act deeply affected her emotionally at a time when she was already going through turmoil.

The choreographer further opened up about her emotional breakdown during the divorce verdict. She admitted she was left howling and crying as the decision was announced, describing it as one of the most painful moments of her life. Chahal and Dhanashree married in December 2020 after falling in love during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, their marriage could not stand the test of time, and the two officially parted ways earlier this year, ending their nearly four-year relationship.

See Also: Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma removed from ICC ODI rankings altogether

"You know that people are going to blame you. Before I had even known that this T-shirt stunt had happened, we were all aware that people were going to blame me for this. Are bhai, WhatsApp kar deta. T-shirt kyu pehna hai? (You should have sent it on WhatsApp. Why wear the T-shirt?). I still remember when I was standing there and the verdict was about to be given. Even though we were so well-prepared mentally, I got so emotional. I started howling in front of everybody. I couldn't even express what I was feeling at that point. I just remember that I just kept crying, I was just howling and crying. Of course! All of that happened, and he (Chahal) walked out first," Dhanashree said in an interview.

You have to put in an effort: Dhanashree

Dhanashree Verma reflected on her marriage with Yuzvendra Chahal, saying that she had always put in every possible effort to stand by her partner. She mentioned that she had supported him in both big and small matters, and people had witnessed her commitment throughout their relationship. Verma explained that her emotional outburst during the divorce was a result of the deep effort she had invested, adding that how one behaves on such a day is a true reflection of their character. Meanwhile, Yuzvendra Chahal had an impressive campaign in IPL 2025 with Punjab Kings (PBKS). Playing 14 matches, the leg-spinner picked up 16 wickets at an average of 26.87 and an economy rate of 9.55, including two four-wicket hauls, showcasing his continued impact in the tournament.

"You have to put in an effort. I know how much I have stood up for my partner, and everybody has seen that. Like for the smallest or biggest things, I have been there. Maybe because of that, my emotions came out. How you behave on that particular day is a reflection of you as a person," Dhanashree added.

The Indian leg spinner, Yuzvendra Chahal, attended his final divorce with Dhanashree Verma with a T-shirt that read ‘be your sugar daddy.’ Verma confirmed her surprise at the message and felt that if Chahal had to convey something to her, it should have been done more privately rather than making it public to everyone.

During her recent podcast for the Humans of Bombay on YouTube, Dhanashree revealed that he had an emotional breakdown in the court during the final hearing. She also broke the silence on the entire divorce incident as she shed light on the incident of the separation for the very first time in public with Yuzvendra Chahal. 

See Also: The Hundred 2025, Match 20: Trent Rockets vs Manchester Originals full match highlights and scorecard

“I still remember when I was standing there and the verdict was about to be given. Even though we were so well-prepared mentally, I got so emotional. I started howling in front of everybody. I couldn't even express what I was feeling at that point. I just remember that I just kept crying, I was just howling and crying. Of course! All of that happened, and he (Chahal) walked out first.” Dhanashree expressed.

Dhanashree Verma reacts to divorce incident with Yuzvendra Chahal

The Hayana-born leg spinner has overall picked up 121 ODI wickets in 69 innings at 27.13, besides picking up 96 T20I scalps in 79 innings at an average of 25.09 and an economy rate of just over eight. The last international assignment for the veteran came in August 2023 against the West Indies in Florida. Dhanashree felt that Chahal’s T-shirt message could have come privately.

“You know that people are going to blame you. Before I had even known that this T-shirt stunt had happened, we were all aware that people were going to blame me for this. You should have sent it on WhatsApp. Why wear the T-shirt?” She reckoned in the same podcast.

“We are deeply outraged by the baseless claims being circulated about the alimony figure. Let me be clear—no such amount has ever been asked, demanded, or even offered. There is no truth to these rumours whatsoever. It is deeply irresponsible to publish such unverified information, dragging not just the parties but also their families into unnecessary speculation.” Dhanashree Verma concluded on the murmurs of seeking INR 60 crore in alimony.

India's leg-spinner extraordinaire, Yuzvendra Chahal, has opened up for the first time on the agonising divorce from Dhanashree Verma and the emotional abyss it cast upon him. Chahal disclosed on the Raj Shamani podcast that he grappled with anxiety, bouts of depression, and suicidal ideations during the dying days of their marital bond.

Chahal and Dhanashree were granted a divorce by the Bombay High Court on March 20, 2025, after nearly five years of marriage. While the news made headlines earlier this year, the cricketer had remained silent until now.

“I had suicidal thoughts. I cried multiple times a day, couldn’t sleep, and went through 40–45 days of emotional breakdown,” Chahal said. “I had panic attacks. I was sweating even in air-conditioned rooms. It became difficult to focus on cricket.” He revealed that he had to take a break from the Vijay Hazare Trophy during the 2024–25 season to deal with his mental health. According to Chahal, he felt emotionally drained, often questioning his own worth amid social media scrutiny and personal grief.

ALSO SEE: Exclusive!! Chetan Sharma shares views on ENG vs IND 2025 Tests and DPL youngsters

Chahal speaks about his divorce, mental health struggles, and how he's trying to move forward

Talking about the breakdown of the marriage, Chahal admitted that both he and Dhanashree were ambitious individuals with hectic schedules. That eventually led to distance and incompatibility. “A relationship requires time, understanding, and compromise. We both were busy with our lives. The connection started fading. I take responsibility too. I couldn’t express myself well,” he said.

Chahal also addressed the online trolling and rumors, particularly accusations of infidelity following the release of a music video by Dhanashree that touched on cheating and abuse. “I was called a cheater. But I have never cheated in my life. I’ve always been loyal. I think from my heart for my loved ones,” he clarified.

He added that his biggest fear is being alone and admitted to keeping a light on while he slept. He said, though there were struggles on the way, Chahal was working on himself and trying to become a better person. That honest conversation, despite the small viewership, has been commended for shedding light on mental health in professional sport, and fans have lauded Chahal for his courage and strength in speaking up.

Star India cricketer Yuzvendra Chahal revealed his tough post-divorce phase. He claimed that fake narratives and false claims about cheating on his ex-wife, Dhanashree Verma, almost drove him to take his own life. Because of decreased mental health due to rumors around him, his daily routine was badly affected, and the sleep cycle was disturbed. With a poor mental state, Chahal had to continue his cricket career as well. 

Slowly, the cricketer found himself at new lows, not for cricketing reasons, but for personal issues. Chahal claimed that he has two sisters; he knows how to respect women. He labeled himself as the most loyal person anyone can explore around. The false claims made him devastated, and by that time, he had only low thoughts in mind. From there, Chahal fought back and again made headlines through his bowling performances. 

"I had suicidal thoughts, I was tired of my life, and I used to cry for 2 hours. I used to sleep for just 2 hours. It went for 40-45 days. I wanted a break from cricket. I was so busy with cricket. I was not able to concentrate. I used to sleep for 2 hours. Used to share suicidal thoughts with my friend. I used to get scared," Yuzvendra Chahal said in a recent conversation. 

Read More: WATCH: Moment when 18-year-old Jewel Andrew got his West Indies T20I debut cap

Never cheated: Yuzvendra Chahal 

"I have never cheated in my life. I am not that kind of a person. You won't find anyone more loyal than me... I have two sisters and have grown up with them since childhood. I know how to respect women because my parents have taught me how to respect them. I've learned my life lessons from people around me." 

Yuzvendra Chahal and Dhanashree tied their knot in December 2020 and separated legally on March 20, 2025. The prolific spinner has been out from Team India now for some years. He last played for India in August 2023. His experience and skills proved helpful to the Punjab Kings during their promising campaign in IPL 2025.