A Star is Born: Varun Chakravarthy’s Exceptional Debut
Varun Chakravarthy’s journey to become a standout player in the Indian cricket team has been nothing short of remarkable. His inclusion in the final group game of the Champions Trophy, replacing Harshit Rana, was a decision that would pay off handsomely. Playing just his second One Day International (ODI), Varun delivered an outstanding performance, returning figures of 5 for 42 to secure a 44-run victory for India against New Zealand in Dubai. His performance not only solidified his position in the team but also left the management with a tough decision for the upcoming semi-final against Australia.
A Consistent Performer
Former Indian legspinner Anil Kumble praised Varun’s consistency and his impact on the game. Kumble highlighted how Varun has been exceptional over the past 1.5 years, consistently delivering results for various teams, including Tamil Nadu and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the Indian Premier League (IPL). "I think Varun has been exceptional in the last 1-1.5 years, consistently winning matches for whichever team he has played for, whether it’s Tamil Nadu or KKR or for India in T20Is," Kumble said on ESPNcricinfo Match Day. "And now, today, getting an opportunity [in ODIs], because obviously India had already qualified. But going by the pitch and the conditions perhaps for the semi-final and hopefully for India, the final, this certainly augurs well."
The Perfect Pitch and Conditions
The conditions in Dubai seemed to favor Varun’s style of bowling, which is a significant advantage for India. Kumble emphasized that if India continues to play on similar pitches, their four-pronged spin attack could pose a formidable challenge to any team, especially Australia. "And if this is the kind of pitch India will continue to play on in Dubai, then this four-pronged spin attack would be really a challenge for any team. Australia would find it extremely difficult to maneuver these four spinners."
A Decisive Performance
New Zealand was set a target of 250, and Varun was instrumental in dismantling their batting order. He began by dismissing Will Young and then returned towards the end of the middle overs to secure crucial middle-order wickets. In consecutive overs, he got rid of Glenn Phillips and Michael Bracewell, who were looking to build a partnership. Later, he removed Mitchell Santner, who had started to find his rhythm with a boundary and two sixes. One ball later, he dismissed Matt Henry to complete his five-wicket haul. India wrapped up the game in the next over, sealing their victory and putting themselves in a strong position for the semi-final.
Overcoming Nerves
Despite his nerves, Varun’s performance was nothing short of exceptional. He admitted to feeling nervous before the match but credited the guidance of his senior teammates for helping him stay calm. "I found out last night [that he was going to play]," Varun said. "I was expecting to play for the country and looking forward to it, but on the other side I was feeling a little nervous because I’ve not played a lot for India in ODIs. But as the game started progressing, I felt better. Virat was talking to me, Rohit bhai [Rohit Sharma] was talking to me, and it really helped me to focus on my game."
Looking Ahead
Varun’s performance has undoubtedly earned him a place in the Indian team’s plans for the future. With the semi-final against Australia looming, the Indian management has a tough decision to make. Whether they stick with Varun or opt for a different strategy, his performance against New Zealand has certainly made a strong case for his inclusion. The young legspinner’s consistency and adaptability, coupled with the favorable conditions in Dubai, make him a valuable asset for India in their quest for the Champions Trophy.
