Varun Chakravarthy Joins India Squad for ODI Series Against England, Fuels Champions Trophy Speculation

India's ODI series against England is set to begin this Thursday, marking a crucial phase in their preparations for the upcoming Champions Trophy. The series is the last opportunity for the team to fine-tune their game ahead of the prestigious event.

CHAKRAVARTHY’S SURPRISE INCLUSION SPARKS CHAMPIONS TROPHY TALK

Varun Chakravarthy, the talented spinner, has been added to the Indian squad ahead of the 3-match ODI series against England. His presence at the VCA Stadium in Nagpur during the team's training session has fueled speculation about his potential inclusion in the Champions Trophy squad. Although Chakravarthy was initially not part of the squad for the series against England and was not considered for the Champions Trophy, his recent performances have drawn attention.

IMPRESSIVE PERFORMANCES DRIVE HIS CALL-UP

Chakravarthy’s exceptional showing in the Vijay Hazare Trophy last month, followed by his stellar performance in the T20I series against England—where he claimed 14 wickets in five matches—have been pivotal in his return to the national squad. His form has led to growing calls for his inclusion in the ICC event. The 33-year-old has not yet made his ODI debut, but he has played 23 List A matches for Tamil Nadu, amassing 59 wickets at an average of 21.15, including three five-wicket hauls, one of which came in the Vijay Hazare Trophy quarter-final.

ASHWIN'S SUPPORT FOR CHAKRAVARTHY'S CHAMPIONS TROPHY BID

Ravichandran Ashwin, the legendary former India spinner who recently retired from international cricket, has publicly backed Chakravarthy for a spot in the Champions Trophy squad. Speaking on his personal channel, Ashwin expressed confidence that Chakravarthy has a good chance of making the cut. "There is a chance he might be there. I think he could make it," said Ashwin, noting that all teams, including India, have only named provisional squads ahead of the February 11 deadline for finalizing the Champions Trophy roster.

Ashwin further elaborated on the situation, suggesting that if a seamer is dropped in favor of Chakravarthy, India could strengthen their spin department by adding a fifth spinner to the mix. However, he acknowledged the uncertainty, noting that it remains to be seen whether a change in the squad will occur.

As the ODI series unfolds, Chakravarthy’s role in India's plans for the Champions Trophy will remain a subject of intrigue, with the final squad set to be revealed in the coming days.