Although the Indian selectors have announced the 15-member squad for the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025, spinner Varun Chakravarthy made a strong case for a place in the marquee tournament with a stellar performance in the IND vs ENG 1st T20I in Kolkata today (January 22). ). Chakravarthy still has a chance to steal a spot as ICC guidelines allow changes in the team until February 13, six days before the start of the mega event on February 19.

The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) star finished with impressive figures in the series opener against the Three Lions – registering 23 for 3 in 4 overs while maintaining a tidy economy of 5.75.

He first played a double knock in the eighth over to remove Harry Brook (17) and Liam Livingstone (0) cheaply and then took the all-important scalp from the dangerous Jos Buttler in the 68th over.

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How can Varun Chakravarthy still be part of India’s Champions Trophy 2025 squad?

The 33-year-old has emerged as one of India’s best spinners in the shortest format. His ability to adapt to various pitches, along with his deceptive variations and uncanny accuracy, make Varun a valuable asset.

Chakravarthy’s performances have also been impressive in the IPL and he played a crucial role in KKR’s title-winning campaign in IPL 2024, contributing 21 wickets at an average of 19.14.

Also during the tour of South Africa in November last year, Varun finished as the highest wicket-taker with 12 scalps in 4 games at an average of 11.50.

Despite not having made his ODI debut yet, Varun’s recent performances have kept open an outside possibility for selection in the upcoming ICC event in February.

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