Varun Chakaravarthy’s contribution in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 did not go unnoticed, with former Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin declaring him his own “Player of the Tournament.” Though he missed the first two group-stage matches, Chakaravarthy played a pivotal role in India’s winning campaign, especially in the final against New Zealand. In the latest video on his YouTube channel ‘Ash Ki Baat,’ Ashwin appreciated the mystery spinner’s knack of turning the game around at the right moment.
“Whatever said and done, the Player of the Tournament, in my opinion, was Varun Chakaravarthy. He didn’t play the whole tournament, but he made such a massive impact. If Varun wasn’t present, this game would have been quite different. He had that X-factor, the unpredictability. If I was the judge, I would have awarded it to Varun. He was the biggest difference,” Ravichandran Ashwin said.
Varun Chakaravarthy played a key role in the final, performing when India’s pacers were under pressure during the powerplay. He delivered the crucial breakthrough by sending Will Young back and then sent Glenn Phillips back to the pavilion when the Kiwi batter was threatening to cause damage.
WATCH – Hardik Pandya Reveals His Funda: Fight Through Challenges, Never Back Down!
Ravichandran Ashwin especially emphasized the mastermind approach behind Chakaravarthy’s sending off of Phillips, appreciating his capacity to read the batter and change his line and length accordingly.
“See how he treated Glenn Phillips. Phillips was not standing at the stumps, so Varun went outside the crease and bowled a flawless googly. That is why I think he should have been the Player of the Series. The award should be given to someone who made the greatest impact, and Varun did exactly that,” Ravichandran Ashwin further added.
In only three games, Chakaravarthy took down nine wickets, which places him joint second-highest wicket-taker of the competition with New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner, but Santner took part in two additional games.
ALSO READ: Ravindra Jadeja Silences Retirement Rumors With A Firm Message After Champions Trophy Win
His selection in India’s ODI team was initially greeted with suspicion, but Chakaravarthy quieted his doubters by delivering game-winning performances. His skill at adding a touch of mystery and control in tight spots proved to be crucial, and he became an integral part of India’s championship-winning effort.
