Aakash Chopra, a respected former cricketer and commentator, has showered praise on Varun Chakravarthy for his remarkable performance in India’s dominant seven-wicket victory over England in the first T20I on Wednesday, January 22. Chakravarthy played a pivotal role in India's win, taking three crucial wickets—those of England’s star players Jos Buttler, Harry Brook, and Liam Livingstone. His spell of 4-0-23-3 was instrumental in restricting England to a modest total of 132, a score that India comfortably chased down, winning with ease.
Chopra, who is known for his insightful commentary and analysis, highlighted how India’s faith in Chakravarthy has grown since his return to the national team. The 31-year-old spinner has now been given the responsibility of bowling in the powerplay, a phase of the game where spinners often struggle. However, Chakravarthy’s ability to bowl slow through the air has made him a force to be reckoned with. Chopra praised the way Chakravarthy has adapted his bowling style, using flight and slower deliveries to force the batsmen into making mistakes. This approach has troubled opposing batsmen, who have found it difficult to generate timing against his looped balls.
“Since the time Varun Chakravarthy has come back, he has started bowling in the powerplay. He came and bowled the sixth over and his bowling was incredible. The thing I am liking the most is that he is bowling slow in the air. He is happy to just flight the ball,” Chopra explained during his analysis on his YouTube channel, highlighting the spinner’s tactical maturity and how it’s paying off in international cricket.
Chopra also pointed out a key difference between Chakravarthy’s bowling style and that of other spinners, particularly the renowned Rashid Khan. While many spinners tend to bowl faster after being hit for boundaries, Chakravarthy has maintained a composed approach, continuing to bowl with confidence and precision at a slower pace. This consistency in his approach is what has made Chakravarthy a key asset for India. “Pace is a huge marker in my opinion, because nowadays, spinners become fast as soon as they get hit and fast bowlers become slow. If a spinner bowls with confidence, he goes slow. You go slow even if you are hit for a six unless you are a Rashid Khan,” Chopra remarked. This comparison underlined how Chakravarthy’s approach has been effective in controlling the game and frustrating the opposition.
Chakravarthy’s return to international cricket has been a significant development for India. After his absence from the national setup for a while, he made a successful comeback during the series against Bangladesh in late 2023. In three matches against Bangladesh, he claimed five wickets, including a three-wicket haul, which marked the beginning of his resurgence. However, it was his outstanding performance in India’s tour of South Africa that truly established his reputation as a dependable and consistent bowler. Chakravarthy was the leading wicket-taker in the series, picking up 12 wickets in four games at an economy rate of 8.62, showcasing his ability to perform in challenging conditions.
Chopra acknowledged Chakravarthy’s growing importance in the Indian team, not just as a bowler, but also as a tactical asset who can execute under pressure. With his increasing confidence and evolving skills, Chakravarthy is quickly becoming a key figure in India’s bowling attack, particularly in T20 cricket. His return to form is a welcome development, as the team looks to rely on him for crucial breakthroughs in upcoming matches.
Looking ahead, Chakravarthy’s performance in the first T20I has set the stage for more to come. As India gears up for the second T20I against England on Saturday, January 25, at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, the team will be hoping to build on their 1-0 lead in the series. Chakravarthy’s role will be crucial as India seeks to extend their advantage and secure a series win. With his consistent performances in both domestic and international cricket, Chakravarthy could play a key part in India’s plans for future tournaments, including the upcoming ICC events.
Chopra also noted that Chakravarthy’s consistency and temperament could be crucial for India’s long-term success, particularly with the T20 World Cup and other international fixtures on the horizon. The spinner’s growth as a reliable performer in all formats has given India a versatile weapon in their arsenal, capable of taking wickets in all phases of the game. His ability to bowl under pressure, especially in tight situations like powerplays, will undoubtedly be an asset as India looks to build a strong, well-rounded squad for future international contests.
In conclusion, Varun Chakravarthy’s performance against England reaffirmed his growing importance in India’s bowling lineup. With his composure, confidence, and ability to adapt his game, Chakravarthy is poised to continue making significant contributions to India’s cricketing success. As the Indian team looks to continue their winning run in the series, Chakravarthy’s evolution as a key bowler will undoubtedly play a vital role in their quest for dominance on the global stage.
