Varun Chakravarthy credits “high level” domestic cricket quality for his success

As India gear up for the second T20I against England in Chennai, Varun Chakaravarthy, who put in a Player of the Match performance in the first game, opened up on how the IPL has been a game-changer for him.

He underlined a stark similarity between Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, the premium domestic T20 tournament in India and the IPL, pinpointing the competitive attitude as the key element that defines  both competitions.

Talking in the pre-match presser, Varun Chakravarthy said, “The level of cricket in the domestic [circuit] is extremely high. I would say [it is] almost on par with IPL and the other international matches we play. I would really suggest everyone to go and play the Syed Mushtaq Ali because we play on small grounds. It is very challenging [for bowlers]."

Underlining the benefits that he has reaped from SMAT, Varun said, “I find it very tough playing SMAT. It has definitely helped me to get better, be more instinctive, be on my toes, and think correctly at the right moment."

CV Varun registered figures of 3/23 in the opener, claiming the crucial scalps of Jos Buttler, Harry Brook and Liam Livingstone. He will be hopeful of pulling off somewhat of a similar performance against England again as the caravan arrives in Chennai with India keep to gain a proper lead in the series.