R Ashwin Calls for Varun Chakravarthy's in Champions Trophy Squad
India's Champions Trophy squad, which was announced earlier, has come under scrutiny following the recent T20I series against England. Some players' performances have sparked discussions about potential changes, with veteran all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin calling for one key alteration adding mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy to the squad. The 14 wickets in 5 matches Chakravarthy took in the T20I series and the Player of the Series tag had cricketing circles, including Ashwin, in awe.
He is yet to represent India in ODIs but Chakravarthy's splendid form in T20I cricket has triggered questions regarding a 50-over introduction against England, which is another country for the upcoming tour of the side. Ashwin, though feels Chakravarthy might have done the required for selection by doing well during the series scheduled in 50-over cricket formats.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin shared his thoughts on the issue. He added: "We are all talking about whether he should have been there in the Champions Trophy squad. I have a feeling he might make it. There is a chance because all teams have named only a provisional squad. So, he might get picked", Ashwin said. He also admitted that the present team is provisional and changes can be made till February 11, which keeps the door open for Varun Chakravarthy's inclusion.
A possible change in the squad from Ashwin calls in question who is going to lose out to Chakravarthy. With four spinners already in the squad, if another were brought in, someone would have to go. Maybe a seamer. Ashwin said, "If a seamer goes out and Varun comes in, it will be an added spinner (five). I don't know who they would want to drop (if they think about getting Varun in). We will wait and see".
However, Ashwin cautioned that it may not be an easy decision for the selectors, led by Ajit Agarkar, and captain Rohit Sharma, who will have to make the tough call. "It's not a simple decision. If Varun is going to be added to the Champions Trophy team directly, then it becomes a tough decision. He has not played one-day internationals yet. So, I feel they are going to use him in India vs. England ODI first," Ashwin explained.
"I wish they consider Chakravarthy also, he looks so different compared to others of this country". "I have a feeling that Varun might get a chance to play in the ODI series between India and England. If they don't give him a chance here, then it's difficult. But, nevertheless, I congratulate Varun for his first Player of the Tournament award. He is the Chakravarthy of T20I cricket at the moment. I wish he grows more and more", Ashwin concluded.
India's Champions Trophy squad remains provisional at the moment, and changes in the squad will solely depend on the performances of players up to the deadline. ODI series against England is not too far, and the possibility of Varun Chakravarthy debuting in 50-over cricket seems to be the next important step in his career, and his future in India's Champions Trophy squad would be decided on the basis of his performance in the series that is going to take place.
