India’s Top T20I Performer Set to Join Champions Trophy Squad

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India have already named a strong spin attack for the 2025 Champions Trophy, featuring Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, and Washington Sundar. However, mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy is now back in the discussion, with speculations rising about his possible late inclusion in the squad.

The tournament begins on February 19 in Pakistan, but India will play all their matches in Dubai, including the knockout rounds. While Varun Chakravarthy was not initially picked, his recent performances and selection for the three-match ODI series against England suggest that he is still under consideration.

Varun Chakravarthy’s Inclusion in the ODI Squad

Before India finalized their Champions Trophy squad, there were talks about Chakravarthy making the cut. He has been a go-to spinner in India’s T20I setup lately but is yet to play an ODI. Instead of taking a direct risk, the selectors opted for spinners who have been playing ODIs regularly.

However, on February 4, India named Chakravarthy in the squad for the upcoming ODIs against England, hinting at a potential late call-up for the Champions Trophy.

His inclusion comes after a stellar performance in the T20I series against England, where he was the Player of the Series, picking up 14 wickets at an average of 9.86.

Apart from T20Is, Chakravarthy has excellent numbers in List A cricket. In 23 List A matches, he has claimed 59 wickets at an average of 14.13, with an economy rate of just 4.28. His recent Vijay Hazare Trophy performance was exceptional, as he finished with 18 wickets in six matches at 12.16, ending as the second-highest wicket-taker of the tournament.

Will India Make Changes Before February 12?

All teams have the option to modify their squads until February 12, which gives India time to assess Varun Chakravarthy in the England ODI series before making a final decision.

Another factor to consider is Jasprit Bumrah’s fitness, as the fast bowler is still recovering from an injury. If he doesn’t recover in time, India might rethink their bowling combination.

Additionally, India already have three spin-bowling all-rounders (Jadeja, Axar, and Washington), which means they might consider dropping one of them to accommodate Chakravarthy, especially if he performs well against England.

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