Anticipation for the Asia Cup

India’s Asia Cup campaign is set to begin on September 10 against the UAE, and spinner Varun Chakravarthy is gearing up for his role in the tournament. In a recent interview, he discussed his preparations and the support he’s received from T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav and head coach Gautam Gambhir as he returns to white-ball cricket.

A Strong Comeback

Varun, who has taken 33 wickets in 18 T20Is, is eager to contribute to the Indian team, especially after notable performances since his return to international cricket last year. He achieved two five-wicket hauls in T20Is and one in ODIs during the ICC Champions Trophy winning campaign.

Focus on Fitness and Family

In an interview with Boria Majumdar at Revsportz, Varun shared insights into his training regimen. He explained that he had a month-long break, during which he concentrated on “strength and conditioning, fitness, bowling, batting, and everything.” He noted, “It has been a good time to rejuvenate my entire self in a holistic way. I feel better because I got a lot of time to spend with my kid, my wife, and my parents.”

Goals for the Upcoming Tours

Looking ahead, Varun expressed his intentions for the ODI World Cup in 2027. He aims to excel in the white-ball tours following the Asia Cup, emphasizing the importance of confidence and clarity in his game plan. “The primary goal will be to excel in all those tours, then hit the World Cup with good confidence,” he stated.

Adapting to Conditions

Varun is optimistic about the playing conditions in Dubai, where he previously took nine wickets in three matches during the ICC CT 2025. He acknowledged that while the conditions can be challenging for bowlers, he is prepared for various scenarios. “I hope the ground conditions favour us. I am used to bowling in such conditions,” he added.

Support from Suryakumar Yadav and Gautam Gambhir

Varun credited T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadav and coach Gautam Gambhir for their significant roles in his comeback. He recalled Gambhir’s encouraging words before the tour of Bangladesh: “I am looking at you… I am keen on having you in the team set-up.” Such affirmations bolstered his confidence as he navigated his return.

Gambhir’s Mentorship

Varun described Gambhir as a motivating force, stating, “He has always given me good confidence and told me, ‘No matter who’s going to ignore you, I will keep you in my plans for now.’” He emphasized Gambhir’s warrior mindset and its importance in the dressing room, which has been crucial for the team’s success.

The Impact of Leadership

Varun praised both Gambhir and Yadav for their leadership styles. He observed that Gambhir’s energy uplifts the team, promoting a culture of excellence where mediocrity is not tolerated. “You give everything you have, and it doesn’t matter whether you win or lose,” he said.

In discussing Suryakumar, Varun noted his tactical acumen, which he attributes to his experience with the Mumbai Indians. “He is a tactically sound captain and never puts pressure on the bowlers. It would be a bowler’s delight to have a captain like him,” he concluded.

Conclusion

As Varun Chakravarthy prepares for the Asia Cup, his journey reflects not just physical transformation but also the significant support from key figures in Indian cricket. With his eyes set on upcoming challenges, he is determined to make a lasting impact on the field.