Indian cricketer Yuzvendra Chahal has firmly denied allegations made by his former wife and dancer Dhanashree Verma, who recently suggested on a reality show that Chahal had cheated just two months after their marriage. The claims surfaced during an episode of the reality show Rise & Fall, sparking widespread discussion online.
Dhanashree’s remarks spark controversy
During a conversation with fellow contestant and actor Kubbra Sait, Dhanashree Verma was asked when she realised her marriage was a mistake. Verma replied, “First year. Caught him in the second month.” The clip from the episode quickly went viral, leading to speculation about the couple’s past relationship.
Chahal and Verma, who met during online dance sessions amid the Covid-19 lockdown, tied the knot in December 2020. The couple filed for divorce by mutual consent earlier this year, with the process reportedly concluding in March 2025.
Chahal: “I am a sportsperson, I do not cheat”
Reacting to the allegations in an interview with HT City, Chahal dismissed the claims and urged everyone to move on.
“I am a sportsperson and I do not cheat. Agar koi two months mei hi cheat karta toh itna lamba relationship chalta kya? [If someone cheats within 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 said.
Emphasising duration of marriage
Chahal highlighted that their marriage lasted more than four years, questioning the logic behind Verma’s allegations.
“Hamari shadi 4.5 years thi. Agar two months mei cheat hua hota toh kaun continue karta? I’ve said before that I’ve moved on from the past, but some people are still stuck there. Even now, many are holding on to that topic — their homes are still running on my name. I’m not concerned or affected. And I feel this is the last time I’m addressing that chapter of my life,” Chahal stated.
On social media and moving forward
Chahal spoke about how rumours often spread on social media, clarifying that he does not wish to revisit the matter.
“Mai iss chapter ko bhula chuka hun. Koi kuch bhi keh deta hai, and social media pe chal jata hai. 100 baatein chalti hain, par sach ek hi hota hai. [I’ve forgotten this chapter. Anyone can say anything, and it spreads on social media. A hundred stories go around, but the truth is only one.] For me, this chapter is closed. I don’t want to address it ever again.”
He added that he is currently focusing on his personal life and cricketing career.
“I am focusing on my life and my game,” he said, confirming that he is single and “not looking to mingle right now.”
Divorce process and emotional aftermath
Dhanashree Verma, meanwhile, has spoken about the emotional side of their separation. In a podcast, she recalled breaking down during the legal proceedings.
“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. He (Chahal) walked out first,” she said.
She also clarified that the divorce process was quick and free of financial disputes, dismissing speculation about alimony.
Conclusion
While both Chahal and Verma have publicly spoken about their separation, the controversy sparked by the Rise & Fall episode has reignited interest in their relationship. Chahal’s statement marks his firm intent to leave the past behind and focus on his career, closing what he calls a “finished chapter” in his life.