On April 26, in the IPL 2025 game between Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), KKR's mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy proved competent once again over PBKS superstar Glenn Maxwell. PBKS was chasing a decent score of 173, as in only 16.3 overs, it made an impressive 172 for 2 at a strong run rate of 10.42. However, Chakravarthy had a different plan for Maxwell and his 'bundles of mystery spin.'

Chakravarthy dismissed Maxwell, and it was the fifth time 'Chakra' had dismissed the Australian in just eight IPL innings. This was a huge turning point in the match, as Chakravarthy showed that he is capable of troubling the best of the best. The dismissal spawned a cheeky viral comment from former Indian cricketer Suresh Raina, who said, "Varun Chakravarthy keeps Glenn Maxwell in his pocket."

Raina's cheeky comment made on social media went viral and has divided opinion amongst fans, with some protecting Raina's cheekiness and others stating it was an unfair statement. It also led to debate regarding the PBKS's team selection, with fans criticizing the franchise for picking overseas players like Maxwell rather than Indian players who were currently in form, like Nehal Wadhera and Shashank Singh. Chakravarthy's performance also reinforced he was a critical asset for KKR.

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Suresh Raina said, "Varun Chakravarthy keeps Glenn Maxwell in his pocket". pic.twitter.com/GScdMZzyKI

— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) April 26, 2025

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Chakravarthy’s Dominance against Maxwell

Chakravarthy's record against Maxwell underscores his abilities as a mystery spinner. Notably, Chakravarthy has 83 wickets in 70 IPL matches at an economy rate of 7.56, and he has consistently deceived aggressive batsmen in the past. Maxwell has long struggled with his untraditional variations, and Chakravarthy has been able to feast on his attacking mindset in IPL matchups. Because of this, the two have become highlights of IPL contests. He was able to expose Maxwell's risk-taking mentality, as well as that of other all-star players such as MS Dhoni, which has marked him as a big-match player.

The dismissal and Raina’s comment also reignited discussions about PBKS’s team selection and Maxwell’s form. One fan expressed frustration with PBKS’s management, led by coach Ricky Ponting, for favoring overseas players like Maxwell over in-form Indian talents like Nehal Wadhera and Shashank Singh. Maxwell’s inconsistent performances in IPL 2025 have been a talking point, with some fans labeling him a "flop show" in this season.