Varun Chakaravarthy

The excitement that comes with mystery bowlers in cricket is undeniable, and Varun Chakravarthy has added a new chapter to this narrative in Indian cricket. Initially pursuing a career in architecture, Varun made a significant career shift to cricket at the age of 25. After starting as a wicketkeeper-batsman in his early years, he left the sport to focus on his studies. Varun completed an architecture degree and began working as a freelance architect before returning to cricket through tennis-ball games—a decision that ultimately led him to pursue professional cricket.

Transition to Spin Bowling

Varun joined CromBest Cricket Club as a seam-bowling all-rounder, but a knee injury rerouted him to spin bowling. This pivot proved fruitful when he took 31 wickets in seven matches in the 2017-18 one-day competition for Jubilee Cricket Club. Playing in the fourth division of the Chennai League, Varun honed his spin variations and rose through the ranks in Tamil Nadu cricket.

Major Breakthrough and Debut

Varun’s breakthrough came during the 2018 Tamil Nadu T20 League, where he played a vital role in Madurai’s title win. His impressive performance led to opportunities as a net bowler for Chennai and Kolkata franchises in the Indian Premier League. Making his List A debut for Tamil Nadu in the 2018-19 Vijay Hazare Trophy, Varun emerged as the leading wicket-taker with 22 wickets in nine games and had his first-class debut against Hyderabad in the 2018-19 Ranji Trophy.

IPL and International Recognition

Varun Chakravarthy was acquired by Punjab for the IPL 2019 but faced a challenging debut. Despite initial setbacks, he joined Kolkata for the 2020 edition, claiming 17 wickets and earning a national call-up for India’s tour of Australia. Although injuries delayed his international debut, he eventually played his first T20I for India against Sri Lanka in 2021. He was selected for the Indian squad in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2021 following another strong IPL season.

Challenges and Future Aspirations

Despite entering the World Cup with high expectations, Varun went wicketless in three games, and both India and Varun’s performances were underwhelming. The IPL 2022 season also fell short, with Varun claiming only six wickets in 11 matches. Retained by Kolkata for the 2023 season, Varun aims to reclaim his place on the global stage. With improved fitness and consistency, his unique skills can be an invaluable asset to any team.

FAQs about Varun Chakravarthy

What led Varun Chakravarthy to switch from architecture to cricket?

Varun left his career as an architect to pursue his passion for cricket, transitioning from a seam bowler to a mystery spinner after a knee injury during his tenure at CromBest Cricket Club.

When did Varun Chakravarthy make his IPL debut?

Varun made his IPL debut for Punjab against Kolkata in the 2019 edition of the tournament.

How did Varun Chakravarthy perform in his debut IPL season?

Although Varun had a tough debut, he significantly improved when he joined Kolkata in 2020, taking 17 wickets and earning a call-up to the Indian national team.

When did Varun Chakravarthy play his first international match for India?

Varun made his T20I debut for India against Sri Lanka in 2021 after overcoming fitness issues from earlier call-ups.

What are Varun Chakravarthy’s goals for the future?

Varun aims to enhance his fitness and maintain consistency to be a valuable player in international cricket and the IPL, focusing on regaining his form and position in the Indian squad.