Varun Chakravarthy’s Five-Wicket Magic Stuns New Zealand – Here’s What Makes Him Special
Axar Patel Praises Varun Chakravarthy’s Match-Winning Spell and His Unique Bowling Prowess
Varun Chakravarthy’s Five-Wicket Haul Shines Against New Zealand
Indian spinner Axar Patel has heaped praise on his fellow teammate, Varun Chakravarthy, after the mystery spinner delivered a phenomenal match-winning spell in the final Group A match of the ongoing Champions Trophy. Chakravarthy’s stunning figures of 5/42 against New Zealand marked his maiden five-wicket haul in ODIs, proving his worth on the grand stage.
Speaking about his teammate’s performance, Axar Patel highlighted Chakravarthy’s resilience and growth since the 2021 T20 World Cup.
“Credit goes to him. The T20 World Cup (2021) was not a good experience for him. But after that, he has come back stronger, and his mental skill shows how ready he is,” Axar told reporters in the mixed zone.
He further added, “I think he is carrying forward his performances in T20s to ODIs.”
What Makes Varun Chakravarthy a Nightmare for Batters?
Axar Patel shed light on why Chakravarthy is such a difficult bowler to face. The mystery spinner’s unorthodox bowling style and deceptive variations make him a challenging opponent.
“It is very difficult to read from his hand. And the pace with which he bowls is very tricky for batters. If a batter misreads his delivery, there’s a high chance of getting out. He is fast in the air as well,” Axar explained.
Chakravarthy’s ability to deliver the ball with an unpredictable release, combined with his mix of off-breaks, leg-breaks, and carrom balls, has troubled even the best batsmen. His speed variation and accuracy force batters to make errors, often leading to dismissals.
Axar Patel’s Growing Role as a Middle-Order Batter
Apart from his impressive bowling abilities, Axar Patel has been proving his worth with the bat as well. In recent matches, the Indian team management has promoted him to No. 5, and he has responded with commendable performances.
During the England series, he notched up a crucial half-century in Nagpur, followed by an unbeaten 41 in Cuttack. Against New Zealand, Axar walked in at a challenging moment when India was struggling at 30 for 3. However, he steadied the innings with a solid 98-run stand alongside Shreyas Iyer, ensuring that India posted a competitive total.
Speaking about his evolved role in the batting lineup, Axar stated, “When I get an opportunity, I try to bat according to the situation. Earlier, I had to come in and score runs quickly. Now, I know that there are more batsmen behind me, so I can play more freely.”
“I understand that I have more time now. It depends on the team’s requirement—if I feel I need to attack a spinner, I adjust accordingly. Like in this match (against NZ), my partnership with Shreyas Iyer helped us reach a good total,” he added.
India’s Spin Attack Gains Strength
With both Axar Patel and Varun Chakravarthy in top form, India’s spin department looks stronger than ever. While Axar continues to provide balance with his all-round abilities, Chakravarthy’s variations bring a new dimension to the bowling attack.
Their performances in the Champions Trophy have reaffirmed their value to the Indian team, and with the knockout stages approaching, their contributions will be crucial in India’s title hunt.
