Varun Chakravarthy Has Got An X-Factor: VVS Laxman

Former Indian cricketer VVS Laxman has been impressed with Varun Chakravarthy, who made his T20I debut against Sri Lanka on Sunday. India overcame Sri Lanka in the opening T20I in Colombo, defeating the hosts by 38 runs to take a 1-0 in the three-match series. Varun Chakravarthy, who had a significant hand in the win, earned praises from VVS Laxman for giving India the X-factor.

Varun Chakravarthy had already earned a call-up to the squad; however, due to fitness and injury issues, could not play before. Nevertheless, he delivered an impactful performance on this occasion, partnering with Yuzvendra Chahal. The 29-year old went a tad expensive at times; however, he still finished with impressive figures of 4-0-28-1, dismissing Dasun Shanaka.

VVS Laxman started by expressing his relief as Varun Chakravarthy finally got his opportunity after failing to clear fitness tests and remaining injured. The 134-Test veteran had heard plenty of chatter about Varun’s mystery and recalled the SunRisers’ batsmen telling him that he is hard to pick due to his consistency.

“Firstly, I am glad that he (Varun Chakravarthy) got this opportunity, because twice he was already selected, but didn’t pass the fitness test and was not part of the squad. I think there’s 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,” Laxman stated as quoted by News18.com.

It is very important to show patience and belief in a player: VVS Laxman

VVS Laxman underlined that Varun Chakravarthy remains capable of bowling at the death, with the new ball, making him an X-factor for the side. But the 47-year old believes the leg-spinner would need more exposure to the international arena and is sure of seeing Varun prosper in the upcoming games. Laxman further stated that the management need to stick with a player for some time and stop expecting miracles from the first game itself.

“He can bowl with the new ball, he can come and take wickets whenever the captain and the teams wants to break a partnership – that means he’s got an X-factor. And we just want him to get exposure of international cricket and the only way he 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 realised over years is 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 added.

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