Varun's early years were spent in Chennai, where he attended Kendriya Vidyalaya CLRI and later St. Patrick's Anglo Indian Higher Secondary School. It was during his school days that he developed a passion for cricket, initially playing as a wicketkeeper-batsman. Pursuing higher education, Varun earned a bachelor's degree in architecture from SRM University. However, the corporate world couldn't contain his cricketing aspirations. At the age of 25, he made the bold decision to leave his architectural career behind and dedicate himself entirely to cricket.
Transition to Professional Cricket
Varun's journey to professional cricket was unconventional. After leaving his job, he initially played as a wicketkeeper-batsman but later transformed into a mystery spinner, mastering various deliveries such as the offbreak, legbreak, googly, carrom ball, slider, flipper, and topspinner.
Domestic Cricket and IPL Breakthrough
Varun's domestic cricket journey began with Tamil Nadu, where he showcased his spinning prowess. His performances caught the attention of IPL scouts, leading to a significant breakthrough. In December 2018, during the IPL auction, Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings) secured his services for a whopping ₹8.4 crores, underscoring the high expectations placed upon him.
Stint with Kolkata Knight Riders
In 2020, Varun joined the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), where he truly made his mark. His exceptional bowling performances, characterized by his unique variations and control, made him a vital asset for KKR. His ability to bamboozle batsmen with his mystery spin earned him widespread acclaim and solidified his reputation in the IPL.
Varun's consistent performances in the IPL paved the way for his international debut. He made his T20 International debut for India on July 25, 2021, against Sri Lanka. Since then, he has represented India in multiple T20 matches, bringing his unique spin techniques to the international arena.
Beyond the cricket field, Varun has an interesting personal life. He made a cameo appearance in the 2014 Tamil sports drama film "Jeeva" as a club cricketer, showcasing his versatility. On December 11, 2020, he married his longtime girlfriend, Neha Khedekar, in a private ceremony in Chennai.
Varun's journey hasn't been without challenges. In May 2021, he tested positive for COVID-19, leading to the rescheduling of an IPL match. However, his resilience and determination saw him make a strong comeback, continuing to contribute significantly to his teams.
Varun Chakravarthy's journey from an architect to a celebrated cricketer is a testament to his passion, dedication, and adaptability. His unique bowling style and ability to handle challenges have made him a standout player in both domestic and international cricket. As he continues to evolve and refine his skills, cricket enthusiasts eagerly anticipate his future contributions to the sport.
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