Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has lavished praise on Varun Chakaravarthy, describing the mystery spinner as a “magician with the ball” after his impactful performance in the first T20I against New Zealand on Wednesday. Chakaravarthy played a key role in India’s opening victory of the series, picking up two crucial wickets and showcasing the composure and control that make him such a dangerous proposition in white-ball cricket.
Speaking on JioHotstar, Gavaskar acknowledged that Chakaravarthy appeared slightly rusty, which was understandable given his limited recent game time. However, the batting legend was impressed by how the spinner managed to keep his composure under pressure.
“He managed to take two wickets and maintained a decent economy rate, even when the batters were attacking fiercely. Importantly, his body language was positive,” Sunil Gavaskar observed.
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One of the most encouraging aspects, according to Gavaskar, was Chakaravarthy’s response after being hit for a few big shots. In the past, body language had occasionally been a concern for the spinner, but this time there were no visible signs of frustration or doubt. Gavaskar noted that Chakaravarthy walked back to his mark confidently, unfazed by the sixes he conceded — a trait that often separates good bowlers from match-winners.
“He’s a magician, make no mistake. He bowls brilliantly,” Sunil Gavaskar remarked, stressing that belief is central to Chakaravarthy’s success. Whether in T20 cricket or the more demanding 50-over format, Gavaskar believes the spinner’s mindset remains his biggest strength. Trusting his variations and backing himself to strike in the next over, he said, is what allows Chakaravarthy to consistently break partnerships.
Gavaskar also termed India’s overall performance in the series opener as “very heartening,” especially with the T20 World Cup on the horizon. Abhishek Sharma’s blistering 84 off 35 balls, combined with Rinku Singh’s unbeaten 44 off 20 deliveries, powered India to an imposing total of 238 for 7. With the ball, Chakaravarthy, Arshdeep Singh and Hardik Pandya delivered timely breakthroughs to restrict New Zealand to 190 for 7.
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Calling it an ideal start to a new campaign, Gavaskar said winning the opening match builds momentum and confidence. Despite a few dropped catches, he expressed satisfaction with India’s performance. The focus now shifts to the second T20I in Raipur on Friday, where India will look to build on their strong start.
