Varun Chakaravarthy might make it into India’s Champions Trophy team: R Ashwin

Statemate Varun Chakaravarthy may be added to India’s squad late for the next Champions Trophy 2025, which begins on February 19, according to Ravichandran Ashwin. India announced a tentative 15-man lineup for the major event, much like every other team. That side did not select Chakaravarthy. But according to Ashwin, the mystery spinner might be able to make the cut thanks to his strong T20I cricket exploits. During the 2021 T20 World Cup, Varun Chakaravarthy debut with the Indian squad was lacklustre.

After three years away from the national team, he made a spectacular return in 2024 during a home series against Bangladesh. The 33-year-old has claimed 31 wickets from 12 games since his return, all at an incredible average of just 11.25. He was a key player in India’s recent 4-1 victory over England in the T20I series. After taking 14 wickets in five games, Chakaravarthy was named Player of the Series.

According to Ashwin, India could add Varun Chakaravarthy to their tentatively announced 15-man roster before the deadline of February 12.

Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, and Washington Sundar were the four spinners whom India had originally selected for the team.

We’re all debating whether he ought to have been in the Champions Trophy team. I am considering the possibility that he is present. I suspect that he may survive. Since each team has merely announced a tentative squad, there is a chance. R Ashwin stated on his YouTube channel that he might be chosen.

However, if you look at the current team, Varun will be an extra spinner (five) if a seamer leaves. If they consider putting Varun in, I’m not sure who they would want to drop. We’ll wait and find out,” he continued.

Prior to the Champions Trophy, India will play England in a three-match ODI series. The team selected for the Champions Trophy is the same as the one for the England series. Varun Chakaravarthy first ODI call-up may be possible, though, as Jasprit Bumrah’s availability is still uncertain.

“I think Varun might get an opportunity to play in the India-England ODI series. Taking him straight to the Champions Trophy isn’t an easy decision, in my opinion. He hasn’t participated in ODIs. In the ODI series, I suspect they will give him an opportunity. It’s challenging if they don’t give him an opportunity here,” Ashwin remarked.

In his 23 List A appearances thus far, Varun Chakaravarthy has taken 59 wickets at a strike rate of 19.80 and an average of 14.13. In the 50-over format, he also claimed four wickets.