India’s rising leg-spinner Varun Chakravarthy took his first ODI five-wicket haul to help the team secure a 44-run win over New Zealand in Dubai. The performance has raised eyebrows, particularly with the upcoming semi-final against Australia.
Former India leg-spinner Anil Kumble praised Varun for his exceptional display, saying it would encourage India ahead of their semi-final and potential final at the same venue. Kumble noted that Varun’s consistency is impressive, having consistently won matches for teams he has played for in the past year.
Varun bowled 10 overs, dismissing New Zealand’s Will Young, Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, and Mitchell Santner before getting his fifth wicket, Matt Henry. The spin attack, including four spinners, posed a significant challenge for Australia, according to Kumble.
India’s semi-final match is scheduled against Australia at the same venue, where Varun’s impressive display suggests that India’s spin strength could play a crucial role in their chances of success.
Source: https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/champions-trophy-2025-kumble-exceptional-varun-has-consistently-won-matches-in-the-last-one-year-1475673