Varun Chakravarthy’s last minuted inclusion in the Champions Trohpy squad proved to be a bonus for Team India as India lifted the Champions Trophy on SUnday after defeating New Zealand by 4 wickets. When India’s squad for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy was initially announced, Varun Chakravarthy was not part of the traveling team.
However, after the England series, the selectors revised the squad, replacing opener Yashasvi Jaiswal with Varun. The decision raised eyebrows as Varun had just made his ODI debut against England. Many questioned whether the mystery spinner was the right choice for the high-stakes tournament.
Making an impact when it mattered
Varun was not included in India’s playing XI for the first two matches against Bangladesh and Pakistan. But as the tournament progressed, the team management saw an opportunity to utilize his spin in Dubai’s conditions. He was included in the must-win group-stage match against New Zealand, replacing fast bowler Harshit Rana. In his very first ICC ODI tournament match, Varun made an immediate impact, rattling the Kiwis with his mystery spin.
Champions Trophy group stage vs New Zealand:
- 5/43 (10 overs)
- Player of the Match award
- Key wickets: Will Young, Michael Bracewell, Glenn Phillips
His stunning five-wicket haul helped India register a crucial victory, cementing his place in the playing XI for the knockout stages.
Breaking Australia’s momentum in the semi-final
Facing Australia in the semi-final, Varun once again delivered when it mattered. His most crucial moment came in the first power play when he dismissed Travis Head, who had tormented India in previous ICC tournaments. His well-planned strategy against Head worked perfectly, and he finished with figures of 2/49 in 10 overs.
Two crucial wickets in the final against New Zealand
In the final against New Zealand, Varun struck early by dismissing Will Young, setting the tone for India’s bowling dominance. He later removed Glenn Phillips, further strengthening India’s grip on the match.
Joint-highest wicket-taker for India
Despite playing only three matches in the tournament, Varun finished as India’s joint-highest wicket-taker alongside Mohammed Shami. His ability to take wickets in crucial moments proved instrumental in India’s title-winning campaign.
From being a last-minute addition to becoming a match-winner, Varun Chakravarthy’s inclusion turned out to be one of the best decisions for Team India. His performances in pressure situations showcased his talent and justified the team management’s trust in him, making him a key figure in India’s historic Champions Trophy victory.
