'Shah Rukh Khan spoke to all players individually and motivated us' - Varun Chakravarthy lauds franchise for support during COVID-19 bout

Varun Chakravarthy, the mystery spinner from Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), was one of the two players from the camp who had tested positive for the COVID-19 on May 01, before their match against Royal Challengers Bangalore in the 14th edition of the Indian Premier League. The leg spinner spoke about his encounter with the deadly virus and the support received from the KKR management during the 14 days.

The 29-year-old spinner shared how the management motivated him and always asked about his well-being. He also shared his learning, experience, and his journey about how to tackle the virus. Chakravarthy also stated how KKR team owner Shahrukh Khan had helped him and the rest of the team members to stay positive during this tough time.

In an interview with ESPNcricinfo, the mystery spinner spoke in length about keeping himself busy during the two weeks of encountering the virus.

“The toughest thing about contracting Covid-19 is keeping your mind distracted, and away from all that was happening. Because you are alone, away from your family and team-mates. To keep myself occupied, I read books by Osho to give me a sense of calm,” said Chakravarthy.

Varun Chakravarthy shares his experience of COVID-19

The 29-year-old felt nervous when he contracted the virus and felt worried for his family and the whole of India as there was a sudden spike in cases from all parts of the country.

“My first reaction was feeling worried, not only for myself, but also for what was happening around us in the country. Even a few of my family members were affected by Covid-19. It wasn’t easy, but as professionals, we had to find ways to go about our work in the best possible way.”

Chakravarthy also spoke about how Shahrukh Khan treated his players and reached out to everyone individually to check the well-being of players and supporting staff members.

“The KKR franchise was very supportive. They went to the extent of even having someone from the team management stay back with me, even after the IPL was postponed and left only after I returned two negative tests and got back home. Shah Rukh Khan spoke to all the players individually and motivated us.”