As India looks to finalize its spin combination for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy in the UAE, cricketer Varun Chakravarthy has emerged as a strong contender for a spot in the squad. The search for a reliable wicket-taking spinner has intensified, especially with Kuldeep Yadav’s fitness uncertain and Ravindra Jadeja’s availability in question.
Chakravarthy, who has impressed in domestic cricket, particularly during his recent performances in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, could be the key to India’s spin options for the 50-over tournament. While Axar Patel and Jadeja are expected to offer control with their left-arm spin, India may require a more attacking option for the middle overs, particularly on the large grounds in Dubai. Chakravarthy’s ability to take wickets could be the X-factor that India is seeking.
Despite Tamil Nadu’s early exit from the Vijay Hazare Trophy, Chakravarthy made a significant impact with a five-wicket haul and finished as the leading wicket-taker of the tournament with 18 wickets in 6 matches. This form, along with his consistent performances in the Indian Premier League (IPL), has raised his profile. Though he is yet to make his ODI debut, Chakravarthy’s ability to take 20+ wickets in the past two IPL seasons, with an economy rate slightly above 8, makes him a strong contender for the role.
Chakravarthy’s previous stint with India during the 2022 T20 World Cup did not go as planned, with India failing to progress past the group stage. However, this time he returns with a significant advantage—Gautam Gambhir is now the team’s coach. Gambhir, who shares a strong bond with Chakravarthy from their time together at Kolkata Knight Riders, has been lauded for his white-ball strategies in the IPL, particularly in managing spinners. This familiarity could work in Chakravarthy’s favor, as he has evolved into a more versatile bowler with a reliable stock ball, in addition to his mystery deliveries.
With Ravichandran Ashwin’s retirement leaving a void in India’s spin resources, Chakravarthy could be the solution to India’s spin conundrum. Gambhir might just turn to his trusted protegee for the crucial role in the Champions Trophy squad.
