In the high-stakes semifinal clash of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, taking place at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, India tightened their grip against Australia with a crucial early dismissal. Spinner Varun Chakravarthy made an immediate impact by removing the formidable batter Travis Head in hi??s very first over, setting the ?Indian fans into a frenzy of excitement.

A moment of tactical genius

It was the 8th over of the day when Chakravarthy, often lauded for his deceptive spin and precision, was introduced into the bowling attack. The pitch, known for offering something to the spinners, played to India’s strategic advantage. With the score at a modest pace, the Australians were looking to accelerate when Head came face to face with Chakravarthy’s skilful delivery.

On the second ball he faced, Head tried to capitalize on a tossed-up ball that was pitched full on the off and middle stump. However, the attempt to loft it over long-off went awry as he failed to connect cleanly. Positioned in anticipation, Shubman Gill at long-??off took a calm and composed catch, effectively sending Head back to the pavilion with 39 runs off 33 balls, including five fours and two mighty sixes.

Here’s the video:

Also READ: Champions Trophy 2025 – Here’s why Indian players are wearing black armbands against Australia in the semifinal

Head’s departure: A massive relief for India

Head’s wicket was indeed a significant breakthrough for India. Known for his ability to dismantle bowlers and shift momentum swiftly, Head posed a continual threat every time he settled at the crease. His track record against India in previous encounters had been impressive, often proving to be a thorn in their side. Hence, Chakravarthy’s successful dismantling of Head’s innings was met with great relief by the Indian camp.

Australia, at this juncture, found themselves at 182/4 in 34 overs, with the scorecard reflecting the story of a cautious yet promising innings largely orchestrated by Steve Smith, who remained unbeaten on 68. Partnered with Alex Carey, who was not out at 2?8, the Australian duo was tasked with stabilizing an innings that had seen key wickets fall at regular intervals.

Also READ: Sourav Ganguly comes up with a befitting reply to Nas??ser Hussain over Dubai advantage to India in Champions Troph??y 2025

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India produced a dominant performance to defeat New Zealand by 44 runs in their final Group A  Champions Trophy 2025 match at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, securing their place at the top of the group. Varun Chakravarthy was the star of the show, claiming a sensational five-wicket haul (5/42) as India successfully defended a target of 250 runs. Earlier, Shreyas Iyer’s composed 79 and Hardik Pandya’s late surge (45 off 45) helped India post a competitive 249/9. Despite Kane Williamson’s fighting knock of 81??, New Ze?aland faltered against India’s well-rounded bowling attack.

Shreyas Iyer steadies India after top-order collapse

After being put in to bat, India suffered an early setback, losing Shubman Gill (2), Rohit Sharma (15) and Virat Kohli (11) inside the powerplay as Matt Henry’s fiery spell (5/42) left them reeling at 30/3 in the seventh over. However, Iyer and Axar Patel (42 off 61 balls) rebuilt the innings with a crucial 98-run partnership, navigating New Zealand’s disciplined bowling attack. Iyer mixed caution with aggression, reaching his half-century in 75 balls before accelerating. However, he missed out on a century after falling to Will O’Rourke (1/47). Hardik then played a counter-attacking knock, hittin??g four fours and two sixes to push India ??past 240 before they ended at 249/9 in 50 overs.

Varun Chakravarthy’s five-wicket magic dismantles New Zealand

New Zealand’s chase started cautiously, but Chakravarthy changed the game with a brilliant spell of 5/42, his first five-wicket haul in ODIs. Will Young (22) and Rachin Ravindra (6) fell early, before Williamson and Daryl Mitchell (17) steadied the innings. However, Kuldeep Yadav (1/40) and Ravindra Jadeja (1/36) applied pressure, leading to a collapse in the middle overs. Williamson fought hard but was stumped by KL Rahul off Axar Patel in the 41st o?ver, leaving New Zealand at 169/7. The tailenders failed to counter Chakravarthy’s sharp spin, and New Zealand was eventually restricted to 184/7 in 43 overs, falling short by 65 runs.

Also WATCH: Axar Patel dents New Zealand’s chase by removing Kane Williamson in the Champions ??Trophy 2025

India sets up Champions Trophy 2025  semifinal clash against Australia

With this victory, India finished as Group A toppers and will now face arch-rivals in recent times, Australia in the semifinal on March 4 in Dubai, setting up a blockbuster rematch of the 2023 ODI World Cup final. Meanwhile, New Zealand will take on Group B toppers South Africa in the second semifinal in Lahore on March 5. India’s dominant bowling performance, led by Chakravarthy, showcased their strength in def?ending totals, a key aspect heading into the knockout stage. The team will take confidence from their balanced squad, with both batters and bowlers stepping up at crucial moments. With Australia posing a significant challenge, India will need another all-round effort to book their place in the final and keep their dream of lifti??ng the Champions Trophy alive.

Here’s how fans reacted:

Kudos to the team for a tremendous fight back. Varun saw it through. Top of the table and we’ll see you on Tuesday 🇮🇳🫶 pic.twitter.com/SVsEPbgHfL

— hardik pandya (@hardikpandya7) March 2, 2025

India r??ead the conditions excellently and made 249 look like a much bigger score than it seemed. Four quality spinne??rs would make it tempting to go with a similar line-up in the semi-final

— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) March 2, 2025

Brilliant selection call by India. To have the 4th spinner on this pitch. Especially when the 4th spinner is Varun!
👏👏👏

— Sanjay Manjrekar (@sanjaymanjrekar) March 2, 2025

Chaaaaaa gyaaaa bhai aaaj Varun 🚀 pic.twitter.com/WreuoVTdCs

— Guru Randhawa (@GuruOfficial) March 2, 2025

😉 //t.co/ckrGFhVo2D

— DK (@DineshKarthik) March 2, 2025

Back to back wickets for our very own Varun 🥳 pic.twitter.com/2dak6tEUwp

— KolkataKnightRiders (@KKRiders) March 2, 2025

Habibi come to Dubai to play agains?t 🇮🇳 ??well done boys 👏

— Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) March 2, 2025

It’s Shreyas Iyer once again in icc event ag?ainst NZ. His phenomenal run continues,?? high time the world starts talking about his strengths and not keep pointing to his weakness.

— Mohammad Kaif (@MohammadKaif) March 2, 2025

Varun Chakravarthy’s Dream Spell! 🌟

A sensational 5-wicket haul and total domination! 💥 Player of the Match! 🏏🔥#Cricket #INDvNZ #ChampionsTrophy2025 pic.twitter.com/BDg6YhS4sm

— betvisa68.com (@CricketTimesHQ) March 2, 2025

Turned the game and how! 💥🥳#WhistleForBlue #INDvNZ #ChampionsTrophy
📸 : BCCI pic.twitter.com/iA08ruq3ni

— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) March 2, 2025

Also WATCH: Kane Williamson’s stunning one-??handed catch stuns India in the Champions Trophy 2025

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England have won the toss and opted to bowl first against Rohit Sharma’s India in the third and final ODI at th??e Narendra Modi Stadium on February ??12.

Changes in Team India’s squad

This match carries extra significance as it marks India’s first ODI appearance in Ahmedabad since the ODI World Cup 2023 final, adding a historical touch to the contest. With the series already secured at 2-0, India aim to complete a clean sweep, while England seeks a consolation victory. Both teams have made tactical adjustments for this decider – England opted for a solitary change, bringing in Tom Banton in place of Jamie Overton to strengthen their batting.

Meanwhile, India made three alterations, introducing Kuldeep Yadav, Washington Sundar and Arshdeep Singh into the lineup, while Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammad Shami and Varun Chakravarthy were given a rest. These changes set the stage ?for an intriguing battle as both sides look to end the series on ??a strong note.

Also READ: Explained: Why Yashasv?i Jaiswal has been dropped f?rom the 15-man India squad for Champions Trophy 2025?

Reason behind Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Shami and Varun Chakravarthy absence

Despite losing the toss, India’s skipper Rohit Sharma expressed his pre??ference for batting first in this crucial encounter. Rohit also reflected on his recent performances, emphasizing the importance of his contribution and the changes. As the series stands level, both teams will be eager to seize the momentum and secure the decisive victory in this highly anticipated showdown.

“I wanted to bat first and put runs on the board because we bowled first in the last two games. It was important for us to get a win in the last game. The fielders portrayed themselves well in the last two games, a lot of young blood. We want to continue to do well in the field. (On Harshit Rana and Varun Chakravarthy) They are pretty new in their careers so we want to keep the pressure away from them, let them do their own and they have got a lot of potential. We have made some changes – Jadeja and Shami have been rested, unfortunately Varun has a sore calf. So, Washi, Kuldeep and Arshdeep come into the side,” Rohit said.

UPDATE: Varun Chakaravarthy was unavailable for selection for the 3rd ODI due to a sore right calf. #TeamIndia #INDvENG @IDFCFIRSTBank

— BCCI (@BCCI) February 12, 2025

Also READ: Arjuna Ranatunga backs Virat Kohli amid constant s?crutiny over his form ?and future

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The ninth edition of the ICC Champions Trophy will start from February 19, wit??h teams racing against time to finalize their perfect squad before the February 12 deadline of the squad submission.

Dubai’s conditions pose a selection challenge for India

As the tournament edges closer, India faces a crucial selection dilemma – deciding the ideal spin combination for the spin-friendly conditions of Dubai, where all their group-stage matches will be played. With Dubai’s pitches traditionally assisting spinners, India finds themselves in a tough spot while selecting its primary spin option for the Champions Trophy.

While Kuldeep Yadav has been India’s go-to wrist spinner in ODIs, the recent emergence of mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy has sparked debates over who should be India’s first-choice spinner. Amidst growing discussions, former Indian cricketer Suresh Raina has stepped forward to express his opinion.

With just days left before the final squad submission, the Indian selectors must make a tough call – rely on Kuldeep’s experience or gamble on Chakravarthy’s mystery spin. Given Dubai’s conditions, spinners are expected to play a significant role, making this decision all the more crucial for India’s Champions Trophy campaign.

Suresh Raina’s choice for the Champions Trophy 2025

Former Indian cricketer Suresh Raina has voiced his support for Kuldeep’s inclusion in the final squad for the Champions Trophy 2025, despite Chakravarthy’s impressive debut in the second ODI against England. Raina believed that Kuldeep’s experience in high-pressure situations gives him an edge over the mystery spinner, who has been making waves since his return to international cricket. Speaking on Star Sports, Raina highlighted Kuldeep’s versatility?? and ability to perform in big tournaments.

“I think Varun is more used to bowling in T20Is for now, while Kuldeep has variety and wicket-taking ability. Most importantly, he rises to the occasion in big tournaments. I still remember the way he clean-bowled Babar Azam in the ODI World Cup 2019. He has a different skill in his hands, and he carries massive experience of playing big matches,” Raina said.

Also READ: Champions Trophy 2025: Suresh Raina makes bold prediction o?n Virat Kohli for the India vs Paki?stan face-off

Varun Chakravarthy vs Kuldeep Yadav

Chakravarthy made his much-anticipated ODI debut in Cuttack on February 9, where he delivered a disciplined spell of 1/53 in 10 overs, claiming the wicket of Philip Salt. Since his return to the international circuit in October 2024, Chakravarthy has been a standout performer, especially in the T20 format. His success in the recently concluded T20I series against England, where he bagged 14 wickets in five matches at an astonishing average of 9.85, made him a strong contender for the Champions Trophy squad. His overall T20I record since his comeback has been nothing short of phenomenal – 31 wickets in 12 innings at an economy of 7.18 and an average of 11.25, including two five-wicket hauls.

Kuldeep has been a consistent performer for India in the ODI format and is currently part of the squad for both the England series and the Champions Trophy. He showcased his effectiveness in the first ODI in Nagpur, finishing with figures of 1/53.  Earlier, he had claimed four wickets in three ODIs against Sri Lanka in 2024, further solidifyin??g his cas??e for selection.

Also READ: Suresh Raina predicts how many cen?turies Virat Kohli will score in the Champions Trophy?? 2025

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India’s mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy made his One-Day International (ODI) debut in the second match of the three-match series against England at Barab??ati Stadium, Cuttack??, on Sunday, February 9.

Varun Chakravarthy’s ODI debut for India

At 33 years old, Chakravarthy has etched his name in the record books as India’s oldest ODI debutant since the team played its first match in 1974. His long-awaited debut adds him to the list of India’s oldest players to make their first appearance in ODIs. Ahead of the match, the seasoned spinner was presented with his maiden India ODI cap by veteran all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja in a special moment for the team.

England won the toss and opted to bat first, setting the stage for Chakravarthy to showcase his skills on debut. The mystery spinner made an immediate impact by dismissing Phil Salt for 26, claiming his maiden ODI wicket. His variations and accura??cy provided a crucial breakthrough??, underlining his value to India’s bowling attack.

Top 5 oldest players to make their ODI debut for India

1. Farokh Engineer: India’s oldest ODI debutant makes his mark in Leeds

Farokh Engineer, at 36 years and 138 days, became India’s oldest ODI debutant during the first ODI against England at Leeds on July 13, 1974. Batting at No. 5, he scored a steady 32 off 51 balls with three boundaries before being dismissed lbw by Chris Old. His knock helped India recover after early wickets, contributing to a total of 265 in 53.5 overs. In England’s chase, Engineer showcased his wicketkeeping skills by stumping David Lloyd off Eknath Solkar’s bowling. However, his efforts couldn’t prevent England from securing a four-wicket victory, with John Edrich‘s 90 guiding the hosts to a comfortable win.

2. Chakravarthy makes an impact on ODI debut with a crucial breakthrough

Chakravarthy, India’s mystery spinner, made his ODI debut in this match against England, becoming India’s second-oldest debutant in ODIs. The spinner, known for his variations and accuracy in T20 cricket, was given the responsibility of controlling the middle overs against a strong English batting lineup. Chakravarthy’s first ODI wicket came in the 11th over of England’s innings when he dismissed Phil Salt for 26 runs off 29 balls. The dismissal was a result of his deceptive line and length, luring Salt into a false shot, leading to a catch by Jadeja. This wicket ended England’s 81-run opening stand and gave India a crucial breakthrough after a strong start by the visitors.

Also READ: IND vs ENG, 2nd ODI: Here’s why Kuldeep Yadav and Yashasvi Jaiswal are not?? playing today’s match

3. Ajit Wadekar: India’s third oldest ODI debutant leads from the front

Ajit Wadekar made his ODI debut at the age of 33 years and 103 days, becoming India’s third-oldest debutant in the format. Leading the team, he played a crucial knock of 67 runs off 82 balls, hitting ten boundaries and anchoring India’s innings. Brijesh Patel’s aggressive 82 off 78 balls helped India post a competitive 265 in 53.5 overs. In response, England chased down the target in 51.1 overs, winning by four wickets, powered by Edrich’s match-winning 90 off 97 balls. Solkar and Bishan Singh Bedi picked up two wickets each, but England’s batting depth secured the win. With this victory, England took a 1-0 lead in the two-match ODI series.

4. Dilip Doshi: A late bloomer shines on ODI debut

Dilip Doshi made his One Day International (ODI) debut for India at the age of 32 years and 230 days, making him the fourth-oldest player to debut in ODI?s at the time. Despite his late entry into limited-overs cricket, Doshi showcased his skill immediately, delivering an impressive performance against Australia on December 6, 1980, at the Melbo??urne Cricket Ground.

In his very first ODI appearance, Doshi played a pivotal role in India’s 66-run victory, claiming 3 wickets for 32 runs in 10 overs. His disciplined left-arm spin restricted Australia’s batting lineup, dismissing key players Greg Chappell, Allan Border and Doug Walters. His performance reinforced his reputation as a dependable bowler, even in the shorter format, despite primarily being known for his Test match e??xploits.

5. Syed Abid Ali: India’s Fifth-Oldest ODI Debutant

Syed Abid Ali made history as one of India’s first-ever ODI players when he debuted against England in the 1st ODI at Headingley, Leeds, on July 13, 1974. At the age of 32 years and 299 days, he became the fifth-oldest Indian cricketer to make his ODI debut, marking his entry into a format that was still in its infancy for Indian cricket.

In the match, Abid Ali showcased his all-round abilities but had a relatively quiet performance. Batting at No. 8, he contributed 17 runs off 24 balls at a strike rate of 7??0.83, adding crucial lower-order runs as India posted 265 in 53.5 overs. With the ball, he bowled a full quota of 9 overs, conceding 51 runs without taking a wicket at an economy rate ??of 5.66. Despite his efforts, England chased down the target comfortably, winning by four wickets with 23 balls to spare.

Also READ: Marnus Labuschagne reve?als 3 toughest bowlers he has faced in international cricket

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Indian cricket captain Rohit Sharma has sparked discussions about the potential inclusion of mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy in the squad for the Champions Trophy 2025. While Chakravarthy has primarily made his mark in the T20 format, Rohit hinted that the spinner’s unique skill set could make him a valuable asset for the team in the future. With the Champions Trophy being an ODI tournament, the question remains whether Chakravarthy can adapt his game to the 50-over format and secure a spot in the squad.

Varun Chakravarthy’s unique skill set

Chakravarthy, known for his mystery spin and ability to deceive batters with his variations, has been a standout performer in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and T20 internationals. His ability to bowl in the middle overs and at the death, coupled with his knack for picking up crucial wickets, has made hi??m a valuable asset in the shortest format of the game.

However, the ODI format demands a different approach as spinners in 50-over cricket need to maintain consistency over longer spells and adapt to varying match situations. While Chakravarthy’s experience in the ODI format is nil, his unconventional style of bowling could provide India with a strategic edge in the Champions Trophy, especially on pitches that favor spin. If he can demonstrate the ability to control the flow of runs and take wickets in the middle overs, he could become a key component of India’s bowling attack.

Also READ: Ravichandr??an Ashwin explains how Varun Ch??akravarthy can get a place in India��s Champions Trophy 2025 squad

Rohit Sharma on Varun’s chances of making it to Champions Trophy squad

Notably, India have already announced their squad for the Champions Trophy, which doesn’t feature Chakravarthy. However, his last-minute inclusion in the ODI series against England, has sparked discussions among cricket fraternity. Following his heroics in the T20I series against the English side, many experts have also backed Chakravarthy’s inclusion in the India squad for the global event. Regarding the mystery spinner’s role in the team, captain Rohit acknowledged Chakravarthy’s distinct abilities.

“Varun has certainly shown something different. I understand that it is a T20 format, but he’s clearly got something different about him. So we just wanted to have an option and see what we can do with him,” said Rohit at the pre-match press conference.

Regarding C??hakravarthy’s inclusion for the Champions Trophy, Rohit revealed that the management is currently not thinking about this aspect but the spinner is definitely in India’s scheme of things.

“If the series presents us an opportunity to play him at some stage, we will see what he’s capable of. Right now, we are not thinking about whether we’re going to take him (to the Champions Trophy) or not. But definitely, he will be in contention if things pan out really well for us and he does what is required,” added Rohit.

Also READ: Pat Cummins doubtful for Ch??ampions Trophy 2025; Australian coach names two captaincy options

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The much-anticipated ODI series between India and England is set to begin in Nagpur, kicking off an intense three-match battle on February 06. With both teams eyeing preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, the ser??????????????????????????ies will serve as a key opport??unity to fine-tune their combinations. Fans can expect high-octane cricket as two powerhouse sides lock horns in the 50-over format.

Sanjay Manjrekar names his India XI for the opening clash

Former India cricketer and analyst Sanjay Manjrekar revealed his preferred playing XI for the opening ODI. He made some bold choices, notably sticking with captain Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill as the opening pair while leaving out in-form batter Yashasvi Jaiswal. Manjrekar’s selection indicates his pr?eference for experience at ?the top order in the high-stakes series.

Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer strengthen the middle order

At No. 3, Manjrekar had no doubts about slotting in Virat Kohli, the pillar of India’s batting lineup. Shreyas Iyer was picked for the No. 4 position, reinforcing stability in the middle order. The major talking point was the selection of Rishabh Pant over KL Rahul for the wicketkeeper’s role. Manjrekar justified his decision by highlighting Pant’s explosive batting and the need to give him g?ame time ahead of the Champions Trophy.

Dynamic all-rounders featuring Hardik Pandya

The all-rounders’ department saw the inclusion of Hardik Pandya at No. 6, providing balance with his power-hitting and seam bowling. Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar were also named, offering spin-bowling options alon??gside their ability to contribute crucial runs in the lower middle order.

Also READ: IND vs ENG 2025: Pit?ch Report for the 1st ODI, VCA Stadium?? ODI Stats and Records

Bowling attack sees no place for Varun Chakravarthy

In the bowling unit, Manjrekar opted for left-arm wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav as the only specialist spinner, sidelining Varun Chakravarthy, whose selection in the squad was linked to Champions Trophy preparations. The pace attack featured experienced campaigner Mohammed Shami alongside young left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh. Though Harshit Rana is part of the squad, Manjrekar believes he is unlikely to feature ??in the f?irst ODI.

Sanjay Manjrekar’s India XI for the first ODI against England

Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer,?? Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Y?adav, Mohammed Shami, Arshdeep Singh

Also READ: IND vs ENG 2025: Here’s how to buy tickets fo??r the first ODI betwee??n India and England

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The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to take place in Pakistan and the UAE, with all of India’s matches scheduled to be held in Dubai. As one of the strongest teams in white-ball cricket, India will enter the tournament with high expectations. The squad, which has already been announced, features a balanced mix of experienced players and young talents. However, discussions are still ongoing about possible late inclusions, with mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy emerging a??s a strong contender foll??owing his stellar T20I performances.

Ravichandran Ashwin on how Varun Chakravarthy can feature in India’s squad

Though Varun was not included in India’s squad for the Champions Trophy, his recent performances have ignited discussions about whether he deserves a late call-up. The mystery spinner was in sensational form during the five-match T20I series against England, where he bagged 14 wickets in five games, earning the Player of the Series award. His impact was also felt in the four-match T20I series against South Africa in November 2024, where he bagged 12 wickets and played a crucial role in India’s success.

One of India’s finest spinners, Ravichandran Ashwin, who retired from international cricket, backed Varun’s chances of making it to the Champions Trophy squad. He also explained that India have named a provisional squad, which means they can still make c??ha?nges, allowing Varun to be picked in the final squad.

“We are all talking about whether he should have been there (Champions Trophy squad). I am thinking there is a chance he might be there. I have a feeling he might make it. There is a chance because all teams have named only a provisional squad. So, he might get picked,” Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.

Also READ: 3 players wh??o can open with Fakhar Zaman for Pakistan in Champions Trophy 2025

Challenge of accommodating Varun in the squad

While Ashwin believes Varun has a strong case fo??r selection, he also pointed out the challenge of fitting him into the already well-balanced squad. India currently has four frontline spinners, and adding another would require dropping a pacer, which might disrupt the team’s overall composition.

“But, if you look at the existing squad, if a seamer goes out and Varun comes in, it will be an added spinner (five). I don’t know who they would want to drop (if they think about getting Varun in). We will wait and see,” Ashwin added.

With the Champions Trophy still months away, there remains a slim possibility of last-minute changes to the squad. If India re-evaluates its bowling options based on conditions in Dubai, Varun could still find himself in contention for a spot in ??the final 15.

Also READ: Pakistan’s Wasim Akram predicts the winner of Champions Trophy 2025

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Indian spinner Varun Chakravarthy delivered a stellar performance in the third T20I against England in Rajkot on Tuesday, dismantling the opposition with his skillful bowling. Chakravarthy first set the tone by removing England’s key batters Jos Buttler, Jamie Smith and Jamie Overton earlier in the innings, showcas??ing? his ability to strike at crucial moments.

Varun Chakravarthy’s magical five-wicket haul stuns England in 3rd T20I

The crafty spinner returned to haunt England later in the innings, claiming two wickets in the same over. He dismissed Brydon Carse and followed it up with a sensational delivery to clean-bowl Jofra Archer for a duck on just the second ball Archer faced. With this remarkable effort, Varun Chakravarthy completed his maiden ??five-wicket haul in T20Is, finishing with figures highlighting his dominance over England’s batting lineup.

1. Brydon Carse dismissal (15.4 Over)

Looking to counter Chakravarthy’s spin, Carse attempted a sweep shot to a delivery that was pitched outside off and turning away from him. However, the shot selection proved unwise as he played against the turn and targeted the longer boundary at deep square leg. The lack of timing and placement caused the ball to balloon up, offering an easy catch to Tilak Varma stationed perfectly in the deep. Varun’s intelligent variation in pace and trajectory induced the false shot, leaving Carse with no option but to watch his dismissal unfold.

2. Jofra Archer dismissal (15.6 Over)

Archer’s stay at the crease was cut short by a deceptive delivery from Chakravarthy. The ball drifted in slightly before skidding sharply off the pitch, exploiting Archer’s uncertainty. Expe?cting a more conventional spin, Archer played down the wrong line, leaving a significant gap between his bat and pad. The ball snuck through this gap and crashed into the stumps, completing a spectacular dismissal. Varun’s ability to disguise the delivery and generate unexpected drift showcased his mastery, leaving Archer bemused and England d?eeper in trouble.

Here’s the video:

Double-wicket over 👌

Completion of fifer for Varun Chakaravarthy 👌

Updates ▶️ //t.co/amaTrbtzzJ#TeamIndia | #INDvENG | @chakaravarthy29 | @IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/ne0Ze0lppj

— BCCI (@BCCI) January 28, 2025

Also READ: IND vs ENG, 3rd T20I?: Here’s why Arshdeep Singh is not playi?ng today’s match

India restricts England to 171 in the Rajkot T20I

The first innings saw a sensational bowling display from Chakravarthy who played a pivotal role in keeping England to 171/9. Opting to bowl first, India struck early through Hardik Pandya, removing Phil Salt cheaply. Ben Duckett led England’s counterattack with a rapid 51 off 28 balls, supported by Jos Buttler’s steady 24. However, Varun turned the game around in the middle overs, deceiving England’s batters with drift, turn, and pinpoint accuracy. His double strike in the 15th over, dismissing Carse and Archer, was the highlight of the innings. While Liam Livingstone’s explosive 43 off 24 ensured England crossed the 150-mark, the Indian bowlers, including Pandya (2/33) and Axar Patel (1/19), maintained control in the death overs.

Also READ: Indian batting coach defends Suryakumar Yadav?? despite his struggles in ongoing T20I series against England

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