Varun Chakaravarthy has created selection dilemma for semi-finals: Ambati Rayudu

Former India cricketer Ambati Rayudu offered his thoughts on the team’s performance against New Zealand in their final group-stage match, which they won by 44 runs thanks to a team effort, as India advanced to the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy semi-final via victory over New Zealand.

The main attraction was Varun Chakravarthy, who replaced Harshit Rana in the starting lineup after missing the opening two matches against Bangladesh and Pakistan and scored a fifer in his debut tournament match.

Rayudu praised India’s spinners, highlighting Varun Chakaravarthy in particular, who earned Player of the Match for his 5/42.

“Today, Varun was excellent. His lines and lengths weren’t particularly constant throughout the beginning of his career. However, his current style of bowling makes him an extremely challenging opponent. Batsmen who haven’t faced him previously find it difficult because, although his motion naturally gives the impression that he is delivering left-arm spin, 90% of his deliveries are googlies. Rayudu stated on JioHotstar, “I don’t think many New Zealand batsmen have played against him much, and he will only continue to improve for India.”

“He may have caused a selection dilemma going into the semi-finals with his outstanding performance. With so many elite players to pick from, India will find it difficult to make a decision, but Varun Chakravarthy has been outstanding. We witnessed his influence in India, and today all four spinners bowled superbly, with Jadeja being particularly impressive. Although the pitch undoubtedly helped them, New Zealand’s batsmen also had trouble with spin, so they will need to get better at that.

Rayudu also discussed the performance of Shreyas Iyer, who demonstrated his value at No. 4 for the umpreenth time with a crucial hit of 79 off 98. After losing three quick wickets in the powerplay, India’s recovery was largely dependent on the 98-run partnership between Iyer and Axar Patels.

Here, the value of a No. 4 batting is clear. When the top order falters, you need someone to play these vital innings, especially on difficult batting surfaces. In an ODI match, that is where the numbers four and five become crucial. “Shreyas had a fantastic innings, and his collaboration with Axar Patel was essential,” Rayudu stated.

It was impressive how effortlessly he batted on this pitch. He played spin brilliantly, taking advantage of the crease and angles, and handled short balls efficiently till he was out. Compared to many other players in the Indian squad, he was far better at picking up the ball’s pace. He has been a champion at No. 4, and it was an incredible knock. He has had a significant influence on this Indian side, but we don’t discuss him enough,” he continued.

Rayudu also acknowledged the significance of Virat Kohli’s historic 300th ODI appearance in cricket history. He stated:

Expectations were high, and the intention was clear. His intense desire for a high score was evident in his eyes. Virat Kohli typically steps up to the plate and provides us with those moments of celebration on significant occasions. Regretfully, Glenn Phillips dismissed him today after making an incredible catch. It was simply one of those days when he was unlucky. Hopefully, though, he turns this hunger into a strong semi-final innings. He has our complete support, and we all want to see him perform at his peak. Glenn Phillips ruined today’s celebration.

In anticipation of the matchup with Australia in the semi-finals, Rayudu pointed out a crucial match to keep an eye on:

“Virat Kohli and Adam Zampa will face off. Although Virat has recently had some trouble facing leg-spinners, his recent form in this competition will help him against Australia.