I am confident of clearing the fitness tests before Sri Lanka tour: Varun Chakravarthy

Kolkata Knight Rider’s mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy was one of the 20-member squad announced by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for India’s tour of Sri Lanka, where the team is set to play three ODIs and as many T20Is starting from July 13.

Chakravarthy, who is yet to make his debut in international cricket, was previously selected for India’s tour of Australia last year after an impressive IPL 2020. However, an injury ruled him out and became T Natarajan’s chance instead, as the pacer went on to debut in all three formats on the tour. Chakravarthy was then denied a chance to feature for India during England’s visit earlier this year, as he failed to clear the mandatory fitness tests.

The fitness standards in the Indian team have gone considerably high after Virat Kohli has taken charge. Knowing that the team will not compromise on that front, the 29-year-old has been working hard on his fitness as the Kolkata Knight Riders’ trainers to meet the required standards of the Indian team.

Playing the World Twenty20 is a much-cherished dream for me: Varun Chakravarthy

Speaking about the upcoming tour, he told Sportstar that “I am confident of clearing the fitness tests. Playing for India in the World Twenty20 is a much-cherished dream for me.”

“I consider myself a leg-spinner though the media calls me a mystery spinner. The leg-spin delivery is my stock ball, and I have the googly and the flipper. I am striving to make my top-spinner more potent.”

When asked how he manages to retain his composure while bowling in high-pressure situations of the IPL, he replied, “I simply focus on the process. I can control things till the ball leaves my hand. If the process is right, I don’t bother even if I go for runs.”

He also recalled his interaction with Rahul Dravid. “He told me, ‘You have the ability. Don’t take anything for granted. Maintain dedication,”, said Chakravarthy, who is looking forward to the Sri Lanka tour. “I have interacted with Shikhar Dhawan at the NCA. He is a jovial person, and I am looking forward to playing under him,” he signed off.