Varun Chakaravarthy opens up on mental health struggles
In a candid interview with RevSportz on August 18, Indian cricketer Varun Chakaravarthy shed light on the mental health struggles he faced during his three-year absence from the game. The 31-year-old spinner, who made a triumphant comeback to the team before the 2025 Asia Cup, openly discussed the emotional turmoil he experienced during his hiatus.
For those who may not be familiar, Varun Chakaravarthy’s journey to the national team was not without its challenges. After making his debut in 2021, he quickly established himself as a reliable spin option for the Indian team. However, a series of injuries and setbacks forced him to take a break from the game, leaving him grappling with uncertainty and self-doubt.
In his conversation with RevSportz, Chakaravarthy revealed that the main reason behind his mental health struggles was the lack of clarity about his future in the game. “The main reason was not having clarity of whether I would ever make a return to the team,” he said. The uncertainty and lack of purpose took a toll on his mental well-being, leading to feelings of frustration and despair.
Chakaravarthy’s experience is a stark reminder of the often-overlooked aspect of mental health in sports. Cricketers, in particular, are often expected to be physically fit and mentally tough, but the reality is that even the most skilled players can struggle with mental health issues.
The Indian cricketer’s journey to recovery was not an easy one. He struggled with the fear of not being able to regain his form and the pressure to live up to expectations. “There were times when I felt like I was stuck in a rut, and I didn’t know how to get out of it,” he admitted.
Despite the challenges, Chakaravarthy refused to give up. He worked tirelessly to rebuild his strength and confidence, both on and off the field. His hard work and perseverance eventually paid off, as he made a comeback to the team before the 2025 Asia Cup.
Chakaravarthy’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of mental health awareness in sports. It is essential that athletes, coaches, and support staff prioritize mental well-being and provide a safe and supportive environment for players to open up about their struggles.
In recent years, there has been a growing awareness of mental health issues in sports. Many athletes, including cricketers, have spoken publicly about their struggles, helping to break the stigma surrounding mental health. The Indian cricket team, in particular, has been at the forefront of this movement, with players like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Jasprit Bumrah openly discussing their mental health struggles.
Chakaravarthy’s story is a testament to the power of resilience and determination. Despite the setbacks and struggles, he refused to give up on his dreams and worked hard to rebuild his career. His comeback to the team is a testament to his hard work and dedication.
As Chakaravarthy looks to continue his journey in the Indian team, it is essential that he continues to prioritize his mental health and well-being. His experience serves as a reminder that even the most skilled athletes can struggle with mental health issues, and it is crucial that we provide support and resources to help them overcome these challenges.
In conclusion, Varun Chakaravarthy’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of mental health awareness in sports. His journey to recovery serves as a testament to the power of resilience and determination, and it is essential that we continue to prioritize mental well-being and provide a safe and supportive environment for athletes to open up about their struggles.
Source: https://cricfit.com/varun-chakaravarthy-opens-up-on-mental-health-struggles-before-2025-asia-cup/
