Yuzvendra Chahal Opens Up on Divorce with Dhanashree Verma: “It Was a Gradual, Not Impulsive Decision”

Cricketer Yuzvendra Chahal has spoken publicly for the first time about his divorce from choreographer and influencer Dhanashree Verma.

In a recent podcast with Raj Shamani, the leg-spinner shared insights into the emotional and personal challenges that led to their separation, describing it as a long, gradual process rather than an impulsive decision.

Struggles Behind Closed Doors

Chahal disclosed that both he and Dhanashree had decided to keep their marital issues private.

Although they were dealing with ongoing challenges in their relationship, they continued to project a normal and happy life on social media. The couple deliberately chose not to share their struggles with the public until a conclusive decision had been made.

Hope and Effort to Salvage the Relationship

When asked about the motivation behind maintaining a public image of togetherness, Chahal admitted that it stemmed from a desire to save the relationship.

He explained that he had hoped things would improve, despite growing differences between them.

He emphasized that marriage is built on compromise, and while both had made efforts, the lack of quality time due to their careers put a severe strain on the relationship.

Chahal pointed out that their demanding professional schedules — his cricket commitments and Dhanashree’s flourishing career — left little time for personal connection. This, he said, eventually created emotional distance.

Emotional Toll and Decision to Separate

Chahal opened up about the emotional toll the situation took on him. The unresolved conflicts and the pressure to keep up appearances became overwhelming.

He said that the tension made it hard to remain emotionally invested in the relationship, which ultimately led them to make the difficult decision to part ways.

Dhanashree Responds Indirectly from Dubai

Dhanashree Verma, though not directly addressing the podcast, responded in her own way. She shared a photo collection from her recent trip to Dubai on Instagram.

The pictures showed her enjoying local street food like vada pav and pani puri, strolling during golden hour, and visiting a Hindu temple.

In her caption, she wrote, “Back in Dubai after what feels like a lifetime. Growing up here gave me so many core memories and seeing how much the city has evolved was both surreal and heartwarming. One of the highlights was visiting this beautiful Hindu temple, peaceful, powerful, and a reminder of how far this city has come in embracing culture and community. Grateful for the growth, the roots, and the reconnection (sic).”

A Statement T-Shirt and Final Hearing

Chahal also addressed his now-viral T-shirt that read “Be Your Own Sugar Daddy”, worn on the same day as their final divorce hearing.

Speaking about the shirt during the podcast, he explained, “I didn’t want any drama, I just wanted to send a message, and I did.”

Divorce Finalised in Mumbai Court

Yuzvendra Chahal and Dhanashree Verma were officially granted a divorce by a family court in Mumbai.

Both appeared at the Bandra Family Court, where the divorce was finalized based on a joint petition filed by mutual consent.