An India star, fresh off a recent ICC Champions Trophy victory, has attributed a significant turning point in their career to an early stint as a net bowler for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK). The player recounted an interesting anecdote about how they initially approached CSK for an opportunity.

During Chennai's return season to the Indian Premier League (IPL), the cricketer, then relatively unknown, learned that a certain TS Mohan was in charge of managing the net bowlers for CSK. Determined to get a chance, the player followed the CSK team bus on a scooter, and upon reaching the Chepauk Stadium, contacted Mr. Mohan directly.

"I was going on a scooter and following the CSK bus. I called him from outside the Chepauk Stadium. I called him and said that I bowl mystery spin and asked if there is a chance I can be a net bowler for CSK," the player stated. Initially, Mr. Mohan was hesitant, explaining that they typically only considered bowlers from the first division. The player, at the time, was competing in the fifth division. However, Mr. Mohan ultimately made an exception and extended an opportunity. "He could have easily said no" the player mentioned, acknowledging the fortunate break.

The opportunity to bowl in the nets for CSK proved invaluable. It allowed the player to hone their skills, gain exposure to a professional environment, and impress coaches and players alike. This stint ultimately acted as a springboard, fast-tracking their journey into the upper echelons of Indian cricket.

This individual's story isn't unique. Many cricketers have used net bowling opportunities to showcase their talent and break into the big leagues. Nitish Kumar Reddy, for instance, was a net bowler for CSK in 2021 before making his mark with Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in 2023. Similarly, Afghanistan's Fazalhaq Farooqi was a net bowler for Punjab Kings in 2020 and CSK in 2021 before Sunrisers Hyderabad signed him in IPL 2022.

In a separate instance, Suraj Randiv, a Sri Lankan cricketer who played for CSK for two seasons, is now working as a bus driver in Australia.

The identity of the "India star" who followed the CSK bus on a scooter and had their career transformed by the net bowling stint is not explicitly mentioned in the provided context. However, mystery spinner Varun Chakaravarthy has shared a similar experience.

These stories highlight the importance of perseverance, networking, and seizing opportunities in the competitive world of cricket. Even seemingly small roles, like that of a net bowler, can provide a crucial platform for aspiring cricketers to demonstrate their abilities and change the course of their careers.