In a heartfelt and candid conversation with actress-cum-sports presenter Sahiba Bali, Varun Chakraborty Revealed the layers of his cricketing journey – a journey that was not all glamour, fame or instant success.
Today, a major player for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)Varun is known as a mystery spinner. But behind his calm demeanor on the field lies a story full of anxiety, late starts and emotional battles that almost overwhelmed him.
Unlike many cricketers who start their IPL career at the age of 20, Varun entered the league at the age of 28 – an age when most players are already established. This late entry created immense pressure, self-doubt and fear about his future.
Varun Chakraborty opens up on panic attacks, sleepless nights and mental health struggles
When Varun was asked directly about panic attacks, he didn’t hesitate:
“Yes… during my first two IPL seasons, I had panic attacks every night.”
This wasn’t just occasional stress – it was a recurring mental health struggle. He revealed that he often:
- wake up drenched in sweat
- feeling constant worry and anxiety
- struggling to sleep without medication
- Experience extreme uncertainty about life
Life seemed directionless at that time. Before cricket, Varun also tried his luck in the film industry – but this path was not successful. Financial instability added another layer of stress. They had no steady income, no job security, and even personal milestones like marriage felt uncertain.
This combination of career pressure + personal instability created a perfect storm for anxiety.
Varun’s wife’s role: Pillar of strength
Amidst all this turmoil, a constant source of strength stood by him – his wife.
Varun openly admitted: “My wife played a huge role in calming me down.”
Varun’s wife (Neha Khedekar) Emotional support helped him overcome those dark nights when panic attacks seemed unbearable. In a high-pressure career like cricket, where performance defines survival, a personal support system often becomes the difference between breaking down and bouncing back.
The truth behind the life of a cricketer
Varun also busted a common myth:
“People think that a cricketer’s life is easy and glamorous… but that is true only for 5%. The remaining 95% struggle their whole life.“
This statement resonates deeply.
While fans see packed stadiums, big contracts, and fame, the unseen reality includes:
- Years of uncertainty and rejection
- constant performance pressure
- fear of being replaced or removed
- Financial instability, especially in the early stages
For Varun, late entry meant that he was always “playing catch up.” He had to prove himself faster, work harder and deal with comparisons against younger, more experienced players.
From struggle to stability: Varun’s rise in KKR
Despite the difficulties, Varun transformed his struggle into strength.
Today, he is an integral part of KKR’s bowling unit, known for his versatility and control. But the journey to sustainability wasn’t overnight – it took years of perseverance, mental resilience and self-belief.
He now views his early struggles not as failures but as building blocks that shaped his mindset and performance.
Three-time IPL champions KKR begin their IPL 2026 campaign with a challenging clash against Mumbai Indians at the iconic Wankhede Stadium on Sunday, March 29. It’s a high-pressure start that promises plenty of excitement. Soon after, KKR will return home to Kolkata, where they will face Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on Thursday, April 2. The match marks the beginning of their home leg at the Eden Gardens, where passionate fans are expected to turn up in large numbers to cheer their team and create a great atmosphere.
Also read: 5 sixes, 9 fours! KKR’s young player wreaks havoc with a stormy century ahead of IPL 2026
