As the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy approaches, former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has suggested a key change in India’s provisional squad. The Indian cricket team, which has already announced its 15-player squad for the prestigious tournament, still has time to make alterations until mid-February. Ashwin believes that the team should consider including one additional spinner – Varun Chakravarthy.
Varun Chakravarthy’s Stellar Form: A Case for Selection
Since his return to international cricket in 2024, Varun Chakravarthy has been in sensational form. The mystery spinner from Tamil Nadu has been one of India’s standout bowlers in recent T20I series, including against Bangladesh, South Africa, and England. His consistent performances, including two remarkable five-wicket hauls, have made a strong case for his inclusion in the Champions Trophy squad.
Chakravarthy’s rise in the cricketing world can be traced back to his outstanding performances in the Indian Premier League (IPL), particularly with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). After being dropped from the Indian team earlier, he made a stunning comeback in 2024, quickly establishing himself as the highest wicket-taker for India in multiple series. In just 12 matches, he claimed 31 wickets, showcasing his ability to strike crucial breakthroughs during the middle overs. His standout performance came during the series against England, where he took 14 wickets in five matches, earning the prestigious Player of the Series award.
With such impressive numbers, Chakravarthy’s credentials are hard to ignore, and his inclusion in the Champions Trophy squad could prove to be a game-changer.
Ravichandran Ashwin’s Insight: Could Chakravarthy Replace a Seamer?
Ravichandran Ashwin, in a recent YouTube video, shared his thoughts on the possible inclusion of Varun Chakravarthy in India’s squad for the Champions Trophy. Ashwin suggested that, while India has already named four spin-bowling options — Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, and Washington Sundar — there could still be room for a fifth spinner, provided a seamer is dropped. Ashwin, however, admitted that selecting the player to drop would be a challenging decision for the selectors.
“I have a feeling that Varun might make it into the squad, especially since the squads announced are provisional. There’s still a chance he could be included, especially if a seamer is replaced by him,” Ashwin stated.
Will Varun Chakravarthy Get a Chance to Prove Himself?
Despite his stellar form, Varun Chakravarthy has yet to play an ODI for India, and jumping directly into the Champions Trophy could be a significant risk. However, Ashwin believes that the mystery spinner should get an opportunity to showcase his talent in the upcoming ODI series against England.
“Before the Champions Trophy, India will host England in a three-match ODI series. I have a strong feeling that Varun might get a chance to play in that series. It would be a good opportunity for him to prove himself in the 50-over format before the mega event,” Ashwin added.
Chakravarthy’s Proven Track Record in Domestic 50-Overs Cricket
Varun Chakravarthy’s credentials are not limited to T20Is alone. In domestic 50-over cricket, his numbers are equally impressive. During the 2023 Vijay Hazare Trophy, he took 18 wickets in six matches at a remarkable average of 12.72, further cementing his ability to perform in the 50-over format. His performances in domestic cricket, coupled with his recent success in international T20Is, make him a compelling candidate for the Champions Trophy squad.
India’s Spin-Bowling Options for the Champions Trophy
India’s squad for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy includes a strong lineup of spinners, including the experienced Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, and Axar Patel, along with all-rounder Washington Sundar. While these players bring a wealth of experience and a diverse range of skills to the team, the addition of Chakravarthy could offer India an additional edge in the middle overs. His mystery spin and ability to deceive batters with his variations could make him a valuable asset in crucial matches.
Conclusion: Should India Include Varun Chakravarthy?
With the Champions Trophy only months away, the Indian selectors face the difficult task of finalizing the squad. Ravichandran Ashwin’s suggestion to include Varun Chakravarthy in the squad is based on solid reasoning, considering the latter’s exceptional form and versatility as a spinner. If Chakravarthy gets a chance to prove himself in the upcoming ODI series against England, it could be the final stepping stone to securing a spot in India’s 2025 Champions Trophy squad.
Whether or not Chakravarthy will make it to the final squad remains to be seen, but with his performances in recent months, he has certainly put himself in the conversation.
FAQs
Q1: Has Varun Chakravarthy played ODIs for India?
No, Varun Chakravarthy has not yet played an ODI for India. However, he has excelled in T20Is and domestic 50-over cricket.
Q2: When is the deadline for changes to the Champions Trophy squad?
The deadline for changes to the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 squad is in the second week of February.
Q3: What are Varun Chakravarthy’s recent performances in T20Is?
Varun Chakravarthy has taken 31 wickets in 12 matches since his return to the Indian team in 2024, including two five-wicket hauls and a Player of the Series award against England.
Q4: Who are the other spinners in India’s Champions Trophy squad?
India’s squad includes Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, and Washington Sundar as spin-bowling options.
