Shastri backs Chakravarthy for semi-final, calls it “Right time to unleash him”
Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has strongly backed Varun Chakravarthy’s inclusion in the semi-final of the Champions Trophy against Australia, stating that it is the perfect time to unleash the mystery spinner
Chakravarthy produced a sensational five-wicket haul (5/42) to power India to a 44-run victory over New Zealand in their final Group A match at the Dubai International Stadium on Sunday.
“Very impressed with him (Chakravarthy), and full marks to the think tank and the team management for making the right choice because he’s someone who will get you wickets in the middle overs,” Shastri said in an ICC video posted on Instagram.
“It’s the right time to unleash him. They brought him into the side; he’s got a five-wicket haul, and I think he’s there to stay. His current form, body language, and confidence make him a key asset, especially against teams like New Zealand, Australia, and South Africa, who haven’t faced him much,” Shastri added.
India fielded a four-pronged spin attack against New Zealand, with Chakravarthy, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, and Kuldeep Yadav exploiting the sluggish Dubai pitch. Shastri believes India should continue with the same XI against Australia.
“I think I would go with the same eleven now because the turnaround time is less than 48 hours. The pitch is worn out, and spinners will play a crucial role again,” he said.
Former India captain and legendary leg-spinner Anil Kumble also lauded Chakravarthy’s performance and supported the idea of retaining the same combination for the semi-final.
“Varun has been exceptional over the last 1-1.5 years, whether for Tamil Nadu, KKR, or India. His performance today proves that this four-pronged spin attack will be a huge challenge for Australia on this pitch,” Kumble told ESPNcricinfo Match Day.
Former India batter Ambati Rayudu also praised Chakravarthy’s evolution as a bowler, highlighting how his deceptive variations trouble batters.
“Varun was great today. Earlier in his career, he struggled with consistency, but now he is very difficult to face. His action makes it seem like he’s bowling left-arm spin, but most of his deliveries are googlies, making it tricky for batters unfamiliar with him,” Rayudu said on JioHotstar.
Rayudu added that Chakravarthy’s performance has created a selection dilemma for India ahead of the semi-final.
“India will have a tough time deciding, with so many quality players to choose from, but Varun has been brilliant. Jadeja was amazing, and all four spinners bowled exceptionally well,” he said.
With Chakravarthy’s match-winning performance and the pitch conditions favoring spinners, India may stick to the same XI as they take on Australia in the high-stakes semi-final on Tuesday.
