Varun Chakaravarthy's addition to the Indian playing XI on Sunday proved to be a pivotal factor in their final Group A match against New Zealand. The 33-year-old made his debut in the ongoing Champions Trophy 2025 and delivered an outstanding performance, achieving figures of 5/42 in 10 overs.

Chakaravarthy's exceptional display has created a selection dilemma for India’s captain, Rohit Sharma and head coach Gautam Gambhir as they prepare for the semi-finals. Given his Man of the Match performance, he appears indispensable for the upcoming semi-final against Australia.

‘Will definitely play in the semi-finals’: Mohammad Kaif  

The KKR star's remarkable performance ignited excitement among fans and former players alike, prompting many to take to social media to commend the spinner. Indian cricket legend Mohammad Kaif also expressed his admiration, confidently asserting that Chakaravarthy would "definitely play" in the semifinals against Australia.

“Varun Chakravarthy... What an incredible journey. Wicketless in three matches during the 2021 T20 World Cup, sidelined for three years, returned to Dubai, missed two games, and now achieved a five-wicket haul along with the Man of the Match award in his second ODI. Varun will undoubtedly play in the semi-finals. There is no way India will pass up the opportunity to unsettle the Australians,” Kaif remarked.

Chakaravarthy's exceptional bowling performance was crucial, leading to New Zealand being dismissed for 205 runs in 45.3 overs while pursuing a target of 250. With a victory margin of 44 runs, India ascended to the top of Group A, while New Zealand secured the second position. The Kiwis are set to face South Africa in the other semi-final.

Fans remember Chakaravarthy for his stint in the 2021 T20 World Cup, where he was selected over prominent players like R Ashwin but struggled throughout the tournament, failing to take any wickets in three matches.

Three years later, he made his return to the T20I squad during a home series against Bangladesh. Since his comeback to the Indian team, he has played in 12 T20Is, claiming 31 wickets, with 14 of those coming in just five matches against England in a recent series, which also earned him his first ODI call-up against the same opponent.

In his ODI debut, he recorded figures of 1/54; however, both Rohit and Gambhir are confident in his abilities. The Kolkata Knight Riders spinner is considered a valuable asset for any team in spin-friendly conditions and serves as a significant X-factor.

Read Also: Sachin Tendulkar Applauds Key Performers in India’s Commanding Win Over New Zealand

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