Ashwin Supports Chakravarthy for Champions Trophy Spot as Spinner Practices with ODI Team

Key Takeaways

Varun Chakravarthy may receive his first ODI call-up.
Ashwin supports his inclusion for the Champions Trophy.
Chakravarthy trains with India's ODI squad ahead of series vs. England.
Remarkable T20I performances bolster his case for selection.
India's provisional squad includes four spinners.

New Delhi, Feb 4 (NationPress) The enigmatic Indian spinner Varun Chakravarthy may be nearing his first ODI selection, as seasoned off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin strongly endorses his spot in India’s final lineup for the upcoming Champions Trophy to be held in Pakistan and Dubai.

Ashwin, during a discussion on his YouTube channel, lauded Chakravarthy’s stellar recent performances and suggested a potential late addition to India’s roster for the ICC event in Dubai. "There’s been much talk about his absence in the Champions Trophy squad. I believe he might still have a shot. Since all teams have only revealed provisional squads, he could be included," Ashwin remarked.

While all this speculation unfolds, the 33-year-old spinner from Tamil Nadu was seen practicing with India’s ODI team on Tuesday, in preparation for the upcoming three-match ODI series against England, starting Thursday in Nagpur.

Although the BCCI has yet to officially confirm his spot in the ODI lineup, Chakravarthy's participation in the training session implies that selectors might be assessing his readiness for the 50-over format before the final decision on the Champions Trophy squad is made, with a submission deadline of February 12.

Chakravarthy’s case for selection is bolstered by his outstanding performances in the recent five-match T20I series against England, where he emerged as India’s leading wicket-taker, claiming 14 wickets, including a spectacular five-wicket haul.

His knack for challenging England’s batting unit with his variations and elusive spin was vital in securing India’s 4-1 series victory. Despite having participated in only 23 List A matches, Chakravarthy boasts an impressive tally of 59 wickets at a strike rate of 19.8. His recent achievements in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, where he was the top wicket-taker among spinners with 18 wickets at an incredible average of 12.16, further solidify his claim.

At present, India has included four spinners in their provisional Champions Trophy lineup—Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, and Kuldeep Yadav.

Ashwin addressed this situation, stating: "If a fast bowler is dropped and Varun is included, it would mean an additional spinner (five). I’m uncertain about who they might choose to leave out (if they decide to bring Varun in). We will have to wait and see."