Former Indian wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik has made a compelling case for including Varun Chakaravarthy in India's squad for the 2025 Champions Trophy. The seasoned "mystery spinner," who has shown exceptional form since his return to the international T20 scene, recently delivered an outstanding five-wicket haul in the second T20I against South Africa. Karthik believes that India would be missing out on a valuable asset if they overlook Chakaravarthy for this major tournament.

Karthik highlights Chakaravarthy’s remarkable comeback

Dinesh Karthik has been closely following Varun Chakaravarthy’s journey, having played alongside him for both Tamil Nadu and the Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL. Karthik emphasized the spinner's impressive growth and the vital role he could play in India’s Champions Trophy campaign. Since his return to the national squad in the T20I series against Bangladesh, Chakaravarthy has grabbed attention with his bowling, finishing as a joint-highest wicket-taker in that series.

Reflecting on the journey of the 33-year-old, Karthik took to social media to emphasize the impact Chakaravarthy could make if chosen for the Champions Trophy, stating, "If India don't pick VARUN CHAKRAVARTHY for the Champions Trophy, then they are making a grave error. Outstanding bowler he is turning out to be."

If india don't pick VARUN CHAKRAVARTHY for the Champions Trophy , then they are making a grave error

Outstanding Bowler he is turning out to be #INDvSA #CricketTwitter #Cricket

— DK (@DineshKarthik) November 10, 2024

Chakaravarthy’s five-for against South Africa strengthen his case

In the recent T20I match against South Africa at St George's Park, Chakaravarthy exhibited his ability to deliver under pressure, claiming five wickets for just 17 runs. Despite India's struggles with the bat, where they managed a modest total of 124/6, Chakaravarthy’s remarkable spell nearly swung the game in India’s favor. His introduction in the sixth over dismantled South Africa's batting order, with the Proteas losing wickets consistently.

Ultimately, Chakaravarthy’s stellar performance couldn’t prevent India from a narrow defeat, as South Africa chased down the target with three wickets remaining, thanks to an impressive 42-run eighth-wicket partnership between Tristan Stubbs (47*) and Gerald Coetzee (19*). Chakaravarthy’s impact, however, underscored his value as a game-changer, reinforcing Karthik’s call for his inclusion in the Champions Trophy squad.

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Karthik's plea on behalf of Chakaravarthy reflects a belief in his unique skill set and the balance he could bring to India’s bowling attack. Given his ability to adapt to various conditions and his knack for taking wickets in the middle overs, Chakaravarthy could be an asset to India's Champions Trophy aspirations. Karthik’s endorsement further positions the spinner as a potential X-factor for India, particularly in high-stakes matches.