India’s legendary spinner, Ravichandran Ashwin, has voiced his support for Tamil Nadu spinner Varun Chakaravarthy’s inclusion in India’s squad for the Champions Trophy 2025. The 33-year-old spinner delivered an outstanding performance in the recently concluded five-match T20I series against England, taking an incredible 14 wickets. Despite having not yet made his ODI debut, Chakaravarthy’s Player of the Series award-winning performance has reignited discussions about his potential role in India’s 50-over format.
Varun Chakaravarthy’s Stellar Performances
Chakaravarthy’s recent exploits in the T20I format have been nothing short of phenomenal. His ability to bamboozle batters with his variations and calm demeanor under pressure have made him a standout performer. In the five-match T20I series against England, he accounted for 14 dismissals, emerging as the leading wicket-taker. Before this, he also left a mark in the four-match T20I series against South Africa in November 2024, where he picked up 12 wickets.
His consistency across these two high-stakes series has proven his mettle, with players and analysts praising his control, accuracy, and ability to read the game. Chakaravarthy has shown that he can adapt to different conditions, a skill that will be vital in a global tournament like the Champions Trophy.
Champions Trophy Squad Discussions
India’s Champions Trophy 2025 squad has already generated plenty of buzz, with cricket pundits and fans debating potential inclusions and exclusions. Currently, the squad includes a mix of experienced players and emerging talents, but Ashwin believes Chakaravarthy could add a unique dimension to the team.
Key Points from Ashwin:
- Strengthening the Spin Attack: Ashwin highlighted that Chakaravarthy’s inclusion would bolster India’s spin department, especially on pitches favorable to spinners.
- Match-Winning Potential: With his knack for taking crucial wickets, Chakaravarthy could be India’s X-factor.
- Versatility: Chakaravarthy’s ability to bowl in powerplays and death overs makes him a versatile option for the team.
Ashwin stated, “We are all talking about whether he should have been there (Champions Trophy squad). I have a feeling he might make it. There is a chance because all teams have named only a provisional squad. So, he might get picked.”
The Path to the Champions Trophy
Varun Chakaravarthy’s journey to the Champions Trophy squad isn’t straightforward. As Ashwin highlighted, the 33-year-old has yet to play a single ODI for India. This lack of experience in the 50-over format could be a deciding factor in the team management’s final decision. However, his recent performances suggest he has the skill set required to excel in the format.
Challenges Ahead:
- Transitioning from T20I to ODI cricket: The demands of 50-over cricket are vastly different from the T20 format.
- Competition for Spots: Varun Chakaravarthy faces stiff competition from established spinners like Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, and Yuzvendra Chahal.
- Proving His Fitness: With the rigorous schedule of an ICC tournament, Varun Chakaravarthy will need to prove his endurance and fitness.
Ashwin believes the upcoming three-match ODI series against England could serve as a litmus test for Chakaravarthy. “If they don’t give him a chance here, then it’s difficult. But, nevertheless, I congratulate Varun for his first Player of the Tournament award. He is the Chakaravarthy of T20I cricket at the moment. I wish he grows more and more,” Ashwin remarked.
What Makes Varun Chakaravarthy Special?
Varun Chakaravarthy’s meteoric rise in T20 cricket can be attributed to his unique skill set and mental toughness. A former architect turned cricketer, his journey has been nothing short of inspirational. Known for his mystery spin, Chakaravarthy has mastered the art of deception, which has proven highly effective against top-tier batters.
Strengths:
- Variety in Bowling: Chakaravarthy’s ability to bowl multiple variations, including the carrom ball and googly, makes him unpredictable.
- Calm Under Pressure: He has consistently delivered in high-pressure situations, a trait crucial for ICC tournaments.
- Fitness and Dedication: At 33, he remains one of the fittest players on the circuit, showcasing immense dedication to the sport.
- Match Awareness: His ability to read the game and adapt his bowling strategy sets him apart.
Historical Context: Spinners in Champions Trophy
India has a rich history of spinners performing exceptionally well in ICC tournaments. From Harbhajan Singh’s heroics in the 2002 Champions Trophy to Ravindra Jadeja’s brilliance in 2013, spinners have often been the game-changers for India.
Varun Chakaravarthy’s inclusion could continue this legacy, providing India with a lethal weapon in their bowling arsenal. His style of bowling is reminiscent of Ajantha Mendis, the Sri Lankan spinner who revolutionized limited-overs cricket with his mystery spin.
SUGGESTED FOR YOU
Mohammed Shami Needs 5 Wickets to Break Mitchell Starc’s Record
Fan Reactions and Social Media Buzz
Cricket fans and experts have taken to social media to express their views on Varun Chakaravarthy’s potential inclusion. Many have praised Ashwin for backing the Tamil Nadu spinner and have called for the team management to give him a chance.
Twitter Trends:
- #BackChakaravarthy
- #ChampionsTrophy2025
- #AshwinSupportsVarun
Conclusion
Ravichandran Ashwin’s endorsement of Varun Chakaravarthy’s inclusion in India’s Champions Trophy squad highlights the spinner’s potential to make a significant impact. While the final decision rests with the team management, Chakaravarthy’s recent performances make a compelling case for his selection. Whether or not he gets the nod, his journey serves as an inspiration for aspiring cricketers and a reminder of the talent pool India possesses.
With the Champions Trophy just months away, the spotlight will remain on Chakaravarthy and India’s squad selection. As Ashwin aptly put it, “We will wait and see.”
