Star Indian spinner Varun Chakaravarthy has made shocking revelations about his dark phase, claiming that he received threats after his poor performances in T20 World Cup 2021. The 33-year-old also revealed that he had to hide himself at times as people tracked him down, getting to his house as well.

Chakaravarthy was part of Team India's squad that sustained a landmark defeat to Pakistan in the T20 World Cup in 2021. The leg-spinner not only returned wicketless in that game but also the next two matches he played in as the Men in Blue failed to qualify for the semi-finals. Nevertheless, the leggie played a major role in India's recent Champions Trophy triumph.

Speaking to anchor Gobinath on his YouTube show, Chakaravarthy said he is proud of coming this far and is glad to receive praise after the setbacks at the start of his career.

"It was a dark time for me. I was in depression because I thought I was not able to do justice after I was picked for the World Cup with a lot of hype. I am not able to believe that all good things are happening in one go. I want to take it to the next level. I have faced setbacks, and I know how bad the criticism can be."

"After the 2021 World Cup, I received threat calls. "Don't come to India. If you try, you won't be able to." People came up to my house, tracked me down-I had to hide at times. When I was returning from the airport, a couple of people followed me on their bikes. It happens. I can understand fans are emotional. But when I look back at those things and the praise I am receiving now, I am happy."

"I think the Champions Trophy was a huge confidence booster" - Varun Chakaravarthy

Reflecting on his Champions Trophy heroics, taking nine wickets in three matches, Chakaravarthy recalled the moment he got informed about his addition to the ODI squad to face England. He added:

"I think the Champions Trophy was a huge confidence booster because I played only four matches. And when I performed well in those matches, I felt I belonged and that there was a place for me. But I didn't expect this success. After playing the T20I series finale in Mumbai, I was preparing to return to Chennai. I even got the tickets for Chennai. But the next morning, I was told that I was in the one-day team too and was asked to come to Nagpur."

The wrist-spinner is currently gearing up for IPL 2025.