Gambhir backs Varun Chakravarthy as India’s X-factor for Champions Trophy ...Middle East

After the clean sweep in the IND vs ENG ODI series, India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir looks confident in the team. Ahead of the Champions Trophy, it was a major boost India wanted after a series of defeats in Test cricket. Gautam Gambhir himself came to address the media after the 3rd ODI, also answering questions related to the Champions Trophy. Gambhir highlighted the strategic inclusion of Varun Chakravarthy in the Champions Trophy squad, focusing on his potential to challenge opposition batters during the crucial middle overs. According to Gambhir, despite missing the third ODI due to a sore calf, Chakravarthy remains an important part of India’s bowling plan.

Gambhir on Varun Chakravarthy’s inclusion

Gambhir expressed confidence in Varun’s ability to deliver in unfamiliar conditions, stating that he serves as an “x-factor” against teams that haven’t faced him before. “Look, the only reason was because we wanted another wicket-taking option in the middle [overs]. And we know what Varun brings to the table, we know that Varun can be a massive threat. And with a lot of teams who haven’t played him, he could be an x-factor as well. I’m not going to say that he’s going to start and all that stuff, but it’s always good to have a strong bowling line-up because we know that if he can actually get those wickets in the middle, it’s always going to be an advantage.” He said.

Gambhir on Yashasvi Jaiswal’s omission

While discussing Chakravarthy, Gambhir also touched on Yashasvi Jaiswal’s exclusion from the Champions Trophy squad on the final day. Acknowledging Jaiswal’s bright future, Gambhir talks about the tough selection decisions, adding, “We could only pick 15, he has a great future ahead” underlining the competitive nature of squad selection and Jaiswal’s bright future.

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Varun Chakravarthy’s recent performances

Varun Chakravarthy made his ODI debut against England in the second match of the series. This chance came after he performed well in the earlier T20I series, where he took 14 wickets. In his first ODI, he managed to get the wicket of English opener Phil Salt and finished with figures of one for 54 in 10 overs. Unfortunately, he missed the last match due to a minor injury.

Earlier, the 33-year-old had a great Vijay Hazare Trophy 2024-25 season, where he took 18 wickets for Tamil Nadu with an impressive average of 12.16.

Gambhir backs Varun Chakravarthy as India’s X-factor for Champions Trophy Inside Sport India.

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