Varun Chakaravarthy’s recent performance in international cricket has raised significant discussions about his potential inclusion in India’s squad for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, set to begin on February 19. Here’s an in-depth look at the latest updates regarding his possible inclusion.
Varun Joins the ODI Camp Ahead of England Series
Varun Chakaravarthy, India’s mystery spinner, joined the Indian ODI squad in Nagpur on February 4 for a pre-series camp ahead of the three-match ODI series against England, starting on February 6. This follows his outstanding performance in the T20I series against England, where he took 14 wickets in five matches, including a five-wicket haul in Rajkot. His performance earned him the Player of the Series award.
Varun’s return to the national team in late 2024 marked a major turnaround. He took 31 wickets in 12 T20Is at an average of 11.25 and an economy rate of 7.59, making him India’s leading wicket-taker in the format during this period. These performances have sparked renewed discussions about his possible inclusion in the Champions Trophy squad.
Could Varun Be Included in the Champions Trophy?
Although Varun is not part of India’s provisional 15-member Champions Trophy squad, his recent success has reopened talks about his inclusion. The tournament, set to take place in spin-friendly conditions in Dubai and Pakistan, could suit Varun’s unorthodox bowling style. Ravichandran Ashwin has publicly expressed his support for Varun, stating:
“I have a feeling he might make it. There is a chance because teams have named provisional squads. If a seamer is dropped, Varun could come in as a fifth spinner.”
India’s current spin attack includes Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, and Washington Sundar. Ashwin believes that Varun’s “mystery” factor could give the team a strategic edge.
The ODI Series vs England: A Key Test for Varun
The upcoming ODI series against England (February 6–12) is a critical opportunity for Varun to prove his worth. Though Varun is yet to make his ODI debut, his excellent performances in T20Is and his solid List A record put him in a strong position to earn a spot in the Champions Trophy squad. Ashwin pointed out that if Varun impresses in the ODIs, it could be a significant step toward earning a place in the final squad.
Varun has a solid record in List A cricket, with 59 wickets in 23 matches at an average of 14.13 and a strike rate of 19.80, including four five-wicket hauls. His dominant performance in the 2024 Vijay Hazare Trophy, where he took 18 wickets in six matches, further strengthens his case for inclusion.
Selection Dilemmas: Balancing the Squad
India’s provisional Champions Trophy squad includes four spinners and five pacers. Adding Varun as a fifth spinner would require dropping a seamer, such as Harshit Rana or Mohammed Shami. This decision is difficult, as Ashwin noted, calling it “strategic but tough.”
Varun’s lack of experience in ODI cricket also raises concerns about his readiness for the 50-over format. However, his impressive domestic record and T20I success suggest he can adapt to the demands of ODI cricket.
Team Management’s View on Varun’s Inclusion
Head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Rohit Sharma have shown confidence in Varun’s abilities since his return to the T20I setup. His inclusion in the Nagpur camp shows that the team management wants to test his ability in ODIs. With the final squad deadline on February 12, Varun’s performance in the upcoming series against England will be crucial in deciding whether he will make the Champions Trophy squad.