From dismantling opposition batting units in the Purple and Gold to weaving his magic in the national colours, Varun Chakaravathy's sheer grit has been an inspiration to millions of people. On Sunday, 25th July, the 29-year-old made his debut in the shortest format of the game against Sri Lanka, where he picked up the valued wicket of Dasun Shanaka, and it seems he has already impressed former India cricketer VVS Laxman, with his "X-factor".
T20I debuts for Prithvi Shaw & Varun Chakaravarthy! 👏 👏
— Indian Cricket Team (@IndianCricNews) July 25, 2021
Go well, boys! 👍 #TeamIndia #SLvIND #SLvsIND#PrithviShaw #VarunChakravarthy pic.twitter.com/iN7FzzeHNt
Speaking to Star Sports, Laxman heaped praises on our Knight by saying, “Firstly, I am glad that he (Varun Chakravarthy) got this opportunity. I think there’s a lot of chat about the mystery surrounding his bowling. I was talking with the Sunrisers batsmen, and they are all impressed with the way and the consistency with which he bowls in different parts and phases of the match."
One of the most impressive aspects in his debut game was his ability to bowl the final over of the powerplay with finesse. With only two fielders allowed outside the circle, the mystery spinner conceded just two runs to help the Indian team put pressure on the opposition.
"He can bowl with the new ball; he can come and take wickets whenever the captain and the team want to break a partnership – that means he’s got an X-factor," Laxman added.
With Sri Lanka needing 43 runs in the last three overs, Varun returned with the ball in the 18th over, where he conceded just three runs and picked up the crucial wicket of Shanaka. Varun deceived the batsman with a carrom ball outside the off-stump and recorded his maiden wicket in the international circuit. In his four overs, he gave away 28 runs.
1⃣1⃣0⃣ W 1⃣0⃣ 💪
— KolkataKnightRiders (@KKRiders) July 25, 2021
Brilliant last over from @chakaravarthy29 💜
Emphasizing on the need to be patient with the player, the former India player said, "We just want him to get exposure of international cricket, and the only way we can do that is by making him play. So, I’m sure that he is really looking forward to this opportunity, but one thing which we have realized over the years is to make sure you give him the opportunity. Don’t expect miracles from game one. It is very important to show patience and belief in a player," he said.