**In-form Varun Could Be a Dark Horse as Wrist-Spin Option for Champions Trophy**
As the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 approaches, India is on the hunt for the perfect spin combination to tackle the challenging conditions in the UAE. Among the array of talented spinners vying for a spot in the Indian squad, Varun Chakravarthy has emerged as a compelling dark horse. The enigmatic spinner, known for his deceptive variations and ability to outsmart batsmen, has been making waves in recent tournaments, solidifying his case for a place in the Indian team.
Varun Chakravarthy, born on August 29, 1991, in Bidar, Karnataka, began his cricketing journey as a wicketkeeper-batter before transitioning to a career as a professional cricketer. His journey to becoming a mystery spinner was not straightforward. Initially, he played tennis-ball cricket and eventually joined CromBest Cricket Club as a seam-bowling all-rounder. However, a knee injury forced him to pivot to spin bowling, a move that ultimately proved to be a masterstroke[1].
Chakravarthy’s breakthrough season came in 2017-18 when he picked 31 wickets in seven games for Jubilee Cricket Club. His impressive performances in the fourth division of the Chennai League and the Tamil Nadu T20 League caught the attention of selectors, leading to his inclusion as a net bowler for the Chennai and Kolkata franchises in the Indian T20 League. His maiden India call-up came in 2018 for the Australia tour, although he was ruled out due to injury. However, he made his T20I debut for India against Sri Lanka in 2021 and was later included in the Indian squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, 2021[1].
Despite his initial success, Chakravarthy’s performance in the 2022 T20 World Cup was below par, and he went wicketless in three games. However, he has since made a strong comeback, particularly in the Vijay Hazare Trophy where he finished as the leading wicket-taker with 18 scalps in six games. This resurgence has significantly boosted his stocks, making him a top contender for the Indian squad in the upcoming Champions Trophy[2].
One of the key factors in Chakravarthy’s favor is his ability to adapt to different conditions. While he has developed a stock ball that he can rely on in flatter wickets, his knack for taking wickets remains unmatched. His performances in the IPL, particularly with the Kolkata Knight Riders, have highlighted his remarkable ability to outsmart batsmen with his varied deliveries. In the 2020 IPL season, he claimed 17 wickets in 13 matches, earning him widespread acclaim and cementing his status as one of the most coveted spinners in the league[3].
Moreover, Chakravarthy’s relationship with India’s coach, Gautam Gambhir, who has a pre-established connection with the spinner from their time together at the Kolkata Knight Riders, could also play a significant role in his selection. Gambhir has shown his white-ball nous as a coach in the IPL, particularly in his ability to marshall his spin resources, which could give Chakravarthy an edge over other contenders[2].
In conclusion, Varun Chakravarthy’s impressive form in recent tournaments, coupled with his ability to adapt and his strong relationship with the coaching staff, make him a compelling dark horse for the Indian squad in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. While he may not be the most conventional choice, his enigmatic style and knack for taking wickets could prove to be a game-changer for India in the tournament. As the team looks to bolster its spin attack, Chakravarthy’s name is increasingly being mentioned as a potential game-changer, and it will be intriguing to see if he can make the cut for the Indian squad.
