It was a game of patience, pitch wasn’t a rank turner: Varun on 5/42
Varun Chakaravarthy’s 10-over spell of 5/42 against New Zealand in the 2025 Champions Trophy match was a testament to his ability to adapt to different conditions and situations. The Indian spinner’s impressive figures came on a pitch that didn’t offer much turn, and he had to rely on his guile and patience to outwit the Kiwi batsmen.
In an interview after the match, Chakaravarthy revealed that the pitch was not a rank turner, and he had to sequence his spell differently to get the desired results. “The pitch was not a rank turner. I try to sequence my spell in T20s and it’s a bit different in 50-over,” he said.
Chakaravarthy’s strategy was to bowl with a lot of variation and pace, using the slow turn of the pitch to his advantage. He Bowled 10 overs, giving away just 42 runs and picking up 5 wickets, showing his ability to be economical and take wickets in a pinch.
The Indian spinner’s approach was not just about bowling fast, but also about reading the batsmen’s minds. He said, “I try to play on the mental side of the batsmen. I try to create doubt in their minds, make them think that the ball will turn one way, but it will turn the other way. That’s what I try to do.”
Chakaravarthy’s ability to outsmart the batsmen was evident in the way he picked up wickets. He bowled a tight spell, giving away just 4 runs in his first 4 overs, and then struck in successive overs to pick up 3 wickets. His fifth wicket came in the 46th over, when he bowled New Zealand’s dangerman, Devon Conway, for 43.
The Indian spinner’s success was not just limited to his bowling figures. He also played a crucial role in the field, effecting a stunning run-out to dismiss New Zealand’s captain, Kane Williamson. Chakaravarthy’s quick thinking and sharp reflexes allowed him to pick up the ball and throw it to the wicket-keeper, who then completed the run-out.
Chakaravarthy’s performance in the match was a testament to his hard work and dedication. He has been working on his game for a long time, and it’s paying off. He said, “I’ve been working a lot on my game, trying to improve my skills and fitness. I’ve been trying to be more consistent and accurate, and it’s showing in my performances.”
The Indian spinner’s success is not just a result of his individual hard work, but also the support he has received from his teammates and coaches. He said, “I’ve had a lot of support from my teammates and coaches. They’ve been helping me a lot, and I’m grateful for that.”
In the end, Chakaravarthy’s 5/42 was a crucial factor in India’s 5-wicket win over New Zealand. His ability to adapt to the conditions and bowl with patience and variation was instrumental in restricting the Kiwi batsmen to a below-par total. As he said, “It was a game of patience, and I’m glad I could play it well.”
