Varun Chakravarthy

A TNPL breed, Varun Chakravarthy has the mystery tag strapped around his back, with a bowling action resembling Sri Lankan mystery spinner Ajantha Mendis. Varun started his cricket career as a wicket-keeper in his school days, then turned into a medium-pacer before quitting a high-profile architect job and eventually settling on spin, largely due to a knee injury.

In order to experiment with variations, Varun demoted himself from second to fourth division in league cricket. That move worked wonders as he picked up 25 wickets and rose to prominence for his unique action. This earned him a TNPL contract with Karaikudi Kaalais in 2017 and also led to a call-up to Kolkata Knight Riders net sessions, where he worked closely with Sunil Narine and others. Post that stint, he remodeled his action further and added new dimensions to his bowling. He became a hot property in the 2018 TNPL draft, going as the first pick to Siechem Madurai Panthers.

Although Varun claimed only 9 wickets in that tournament, his economy (4.7) and dot-ball percentage (52.08) stood out. He delivered 125 dot balls in 10 innings and played a key role in Madurai’s title-winning campaign, including impressive figures of 4-1-9-2 in the final. His performances fast-tracked him into the Tamil Nadu side for the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2018/19, and soon after, he was picked up by Kings XI Punjab for INR 8.4 crore ahead of IPL 2019.

Playing for KKR, Varun Chakravarthy made strong contributions in IPL 2020 and 2021, picking up 17 and 18 wickets respectively. However, IPL 2022 was a dip in form as he struggled for wickets and consistency, but bounced back in IPL 2023, taking 20 wickets in 14 matches.

He played an equally impactful role in IPL 2024, emerging as one of KKR’s most dependable bowlers during their title-winning campaign. Operating primarily through the middle overs, Varun combined control with wicket-taking ability, often breaking crucial partnerships. His improved accuracy, subtle variations and calmness under pressure made him a vital cog in KKR’s bowling attack alongside Narine.

In IPL 2025, Chakravarthy continued to play an important role for KKR. While opposition teams were more cautious against him, he still managed to maintain tight lines and contribute with key breakthroughs at important junctures. Even in games where wickets didn’t come in clusters, his ability to build pressure through dot balls helped others capitalize from the other end. His consistency ensured he remained a regular starter and a trusted option in crunch situations.

For the upcoming season of IPL, expectations from Varun Chakravarthy will be centered around consistency and leadership within the spin department. With years of experience now behind him, he is expected to not only deliver with the ball but also mentor younger bowlers in the squad. If he continues refining his variations and maintains his control, Chakravarthy can continue to be a match-winner for KKR and one of the most impactful spinners in the league.