India’s Champions Trophy squad has been announced, but recent performances in the T20I series against England have sparked discussions about possible changes. Among those advocating for an alteration is veteran all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin, who believes Varun Chakravarthy’s deserves a place in the squad.
Varun Chakravarthy: A Game-Changer in the T20I Series
Chakravarthy’s exceptional bowling performance against England saw him bag 14 wickets in just 5 matches, earning him the Player of the Series award. His lethal deliveries and mystery spin troubled England’s batting lineup, making his case stronger for an ODI debut.
“The Champions Trophy squad exclusion has caused a significant amount of debate. I personally believe that he stands a strong chance of making it into the final team,” Ashwin shared on his YouTube channel.
Will Chakravarthy Make It to the Champions Trophy Squad?
While India has already picked four spinners for the marquee event, Ashwin feels that the Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee might rethink their decision and include Varun Chakravarthy’s, provided he continues his fine form in the ODI format.
Why Chakravarthy Could Be the X-Factor?
- Unplayable Mystery Spin: His ability to deceive batters has been a key factor in India’s recent T20I success.
- Recent Form: 14 wickets in 5 matches is no small feat, making him a strong contender.
- Potential ODI Debut: If given a chance against England, his performance could determine his Champions Trophy fate.
Who Would He Replace? A Tough Call for Team India
The biggest question remains: Who would make way for Chakravarthy? If he is added to the squad, it would mean dropping a player, possibly a seamer, which could disrupt the team’s balance.
“Should a pacer be omitted to accommodate Varun, the team would then have five spinners. This adjustment could impact the overall composition of the squad,” Ashwin added.
The ODI Series Against England: A Crucial Test
Before making any changes, India’s selectors will likely assess Varun’s performance in the upcoming ODI series against England. Ashwin believes that this series could be his litmus test for Champions Trophy selection.
“If he is not granted an opportunity in this series, his inclusion may become uncertain. Nonetheless, I commend Varun for clinching his first Player of the Tournament title. He is currently dominating T20I cricket with his remarkable skills. I hope he continues to achieve greater milestones,” Ashwin concluded.
Final Thoughts
As the February 11 deadline for squad changes approaches, all eyes will be on Varun Chakravarthy’s ODI debut (if given a chance). His inclusion could add a new dimension to India’s spin attack, but at the cost of sacrificing an existing squad member.
Will India take the bold step of making room for the mystery spinner? Only time will tell!
