MI vs KKR IPL 2025: Varun Chakravarthy Eyes Big Wickets; Issues Warning To Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma

MI vs KKR: Kolkata Knight Riders' (KKR) ace spinner Varun Chakravarthy is geared up for another exciting season of the TATA Indian Premier League (IPL).

In an exclusive conversation on JioHotstar's special show 'Gen Bold,' he reflected on his IPL journey, the lessons from KKR's title-winning campaign in 2024, and his goals for the upcoming season.

Learning from KKR's TATA IPL 2024 Victory

Varun emphasized the importance of starting afresh, regardless of past successes. Despite KKR's triumph last season, the experienced spinner believes in resetting his mindset for each tournament.

"The lesson is that you can have a great previous tournament, but again you have to start from scratch. That's what cricket teaches you. You can have fantastic two or three tournaments, but in the next one, you have to start from zero. So, that's what I'm preparing for-starting from scratch."

Staying Calm Under Pressure

Handling pressure has been a crucial aspect of his game. Varun revealed his simple yet effective approach to managing tense moments on the field.

"What I have learned till now is to just keep things very simple-don't try to do something very different, don't try to bowl a magic ball or create a magic moment. The most impactful thing you can do is stick to your basics, do them well, and execute them properly."

Managing Expectations

Being a key bowler for KKR, Varun understands the weight of expectations in the IPL. However, he chooses to focus on what he can control.

"Expectations have always been there from the first game I played, and it's not just for me-it's for every cricketer in the TATA IPL. That's how it is; it's part and parcel of playing competitive cricket. So, you just need to focus on your process and not think too far ahead."

Partnership with Sunil Narine

Chakravarthy's bowling partnership with Sunil Narine has become one of the most dependable duos in the league. He praised Narine's influence on his career and their natural understanding on the field.

"Now that I've played five years alongside him-this is my sixth year with him-we don't need to communicate as much anymore. He doesn't have to spoon-feed me. Whatever I can learn, I can just observe what he is doing. Of course, if I have doubts, I always go up to him and talk to him. We have always bowled well in tandem, and he has been the most valuable player in T20 cricket from the very beginning. Even this year, he will be the MVP."

Dream Wickets for the Season

When asked about his most desired wickets this season, Varun named some of the biggest stars in T20 cricket.

"Definitely any batsman who is in great form. Players like Heinrich Klaasen, Nicholas Pooran, Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Suryakumar Yadav-these guys are all the star players. I would be very happy if I could pick their wickets."

With the season just around the corner, Varun Chakravarthy's focus remains sharp as he aims to make a significant impact. Fans can expect the seasoned spinner to be at his best, leading KKR's bowling attack in their pursuit of another IPL title.