New Delhi: As the Indian cricket team prepares to face Bangladesh in their opening match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 at the Dubai International Stadium, captain Rohit Sharma has expressed his confidence in the abilities of mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy. Chakravarthy’s inclusion in the squad, at the expense of Yashasvi Jaiswal, has been a topic of discussion, but Rohit Sharma is clear about the reasons behind this decision.
Chakravarthy, known for his uncanny action and ability to keep batters guessing, does not showcase his full array of variations even during net practice. “He doesn’t throw many variations in the net. He throws the ball in the same way. Maybe he doesn’t even want to show us what he has (laughs). But that is a good thing. He has got a certain weapon that he wants to put out there when it actually matters,” Rohit Sharma revealed during a pre-match press conference.
Rohit Sharma emphasized that Chakravarthy’s unique style and recent form are key factors in his selection. “Whatever we have seen of him in the last 8-9 months, it has been very impressive. He has got something different which is why he is here with us,” Sharma added.
Chakravarthy has been in stellar form, particularly in the T20I format, where he has taken 33 wickets in 18 matches. His performance in the Indian Premier League and subsequent international games has cemented his place in the team. Despite his limited experience in ODIs, having made his debut against England and taking one wicket, Rohit Sharma believes Chakravarthy’s wicket-taking abilities will be crucial, especially with the absence of star pacer Jasprit Bumrah and Kuldeep Yadav yet to find his peak form.
India’s strategy for the Champions Trophy involves leveraging their strength in spin bowling, with Chakravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, and Washington Sundar forming a formidable spin contingent. The team also includes pace bowlers Mohammed Shami, Arshdeep Singh, and Harshit Rana, along with all-rounder Hardik Pandya.
As India gears up for their campaign, the focus will be on how Chakravarthy performs on the big stage. With his unique bowling style and impressive recent record, he is poised to play a significant role in India’s quest for success in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
