MUMBAI:As captains and coaches increasingly recognize the advantages of fielding a team rich in all-rounders, it is becoming progressively challenging for specialist bowlers to maintain their relevance in contemporary cricket. Yuzvendra Chahal, despite his accomplishments as a leg-spinner, often found himself sidelined to ensure the team's balance. Although he was included in India's squad for the 2024 T20 World Cup, he did not make it to the playing XI as the team, led by Rohit Sharma, ultimately secured the championship.

For players with a singular skill set to remain pertinent, they must deliver exceptional performances that render them indispensable. In the current lineup, mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy was absent from India's first two group matches in the Champions Trophy. However, when given the opportunity in the final group match against New Zealand, he took five wickets, strengthening his case for inclusion in the semi-final against Australia.

The decision was not straightforward, as the team management faced a difficult choice between selecting the leg-spinner and the young pace bowler, Harshit Rana, who also contributes as a useful batsman. Chakravarthy's opportunity arose because India opted for four spinners on the slow surface of the Dubai Stadium. Given the rarity of such a strategy, it may prove challenging for Chakravarthy to secure a regular spot in different conditions, especially considering the team's preference for spin-bowling all-rounders like Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel.

On Tuesday, Chakravarthy validated his selection by achieving a crucial breakthrough, dismissing opener Travis Head, who has posed significant challenges for India in critical matches and had started strongly with a quick 39 runs off 33 balls. The mystery spinner concluded his spell with impressive figures of 10 overs, 49 runs, and 2 wickets.

Although Chakravarthy is still in the early stages of his ODI career, he has established himself as a formidable presence in T20Is, serving as one of skipper Suryakumar Yadav's key assets. As the semi-final of the Champions Trophy approached, Yadav expressed his confidence in Chakravarthy's continued selection based solely on his bowling capabilities. "Ultimately, it all comes down to your skills and the value they bring to the team."

He was not selected for three years following that period, leading to the impression that his career in India had come to an end.

However, Chakravarthy has made a remarkable comeback. He delivered impressive performances in T20 internationals during the 2024-25 season against Bangladesh, South Africa, and England. Additionally, he refined his strategies in 50-over cricket by participating in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, where he claimed 18 wickets in six matches, including two five-wicket hauls.

“The contrast between his departure in 2021 and his return is striking; he is now a different Varun. Since 2021, he has demonstrated exceptional dedication as an athlete. I have observed his progress and engaged in numerous discussions with him since his return to international cricket,” Yadav remarked.

“He has developed greater mental resilience while maintaining a positive demeanor, handling all situations on the field with grace. This is highly commendable from a cricketer's perspective.

“I am genuinely pleased for him. He has earned every accolade and recognition for his recent achievements.”

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