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Indian cricket captain Rohit Sharma has sparked discussions about the potential inclusion of mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy in the squad for the Champions Trophy 2025. While Chakravarthy has primarily made his mark in the T20 format, Rohit hinted that the spinner’s unique skill set could make him a valuable asset for the team in the future. With the Champions Trophy being an ODI tournament, the question remains whether Chakravarthy can adapt his game to the 50-over format and secure a spot in the squad.
Varun Chakravarthy’s unique skill set
Chakravarthy, known for his mystery spin and ability to deceive batters with his variations, has been a standout performer in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and T20 internationals. His ability to bowl in the middle overs and at the death, coupled with his knack for picking up crucial wickets, has made him a valuable asset in the shortest format of the game.
However, the ODI format demands a different approach as spinners in 50-over cricket need to maintain consistency over longer spells and adapt to varying match situations. While Chakravarthy’s experience in the ODI format is nil, his unconventional style of bowling could provide India with a strategic edge in the Champions Trophy, especially on pitches that favor spin. If he can demonstrate the ability to control the flow of runs and take wickets in the middle overs, he could become a key component of India’s bowling attack.
Also READ: Ravichandran Ashwin explains how Varun Chakravarthy can get a place in India’s Champions Trophy 2025 squad
Rohit Sharma on Varun’s chances of making it to Champions Trophy squad
Notably, India have already announced their squad for the Champions Trophy, which doesn’t feature Chakravarthy. However, his last-minute inclusion in the ODI series against England, has sparked discussions among cricket fraternity. Following his heroics in the T20I series against the English side, many experts have also backed Chakravarthy’s inclusion in the India squad for the global event. Regarding the mystery spinner’s role in the team, captain Rohit acknowledged Chakravarthy’s distinct abilities.
“Varun has certainly shown something different. I understand that it is a T20 format, but he’s clearly got something different about him. So we just wanted to have an option and see what we can do with him,” said Rohit at the pre-match press conference.
Regarding Chakravarthy’s inclusion for the Champions Trophy, Rohit revealed that the management is currently not thinking about this aspect but the spinner is definitely in India’s scheme of things.
“If the series presents us an opportunity to play him at some stage, we will see what he’s capable of. Right now, we are not thinking about whether we’re going to take him (to the Champions Trophy) or not. But definitely, he will be in contention if things pan out really well for us and he does what is required,” added Rohit.
