Former India cricketer Suresh Raina feels Kuldeep Yadav should be preferred over Varun Chakravarthy for India’s ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Though Chakravarthy recently gained an ODI cap against England in the second one-off game of the series in Barabati Stadium, Cuttack, Raina believes that experience in the high-pressure games makes it the more reliable choice for Kuldeep.
Chakravarthy, exceptional in T20 cricket, recorded figures of 1/53 in his debut ten-over spell, taking the wicket of Philip Salt. Since rejoining international cricket in October 2024, he has sparked discussions about his inclusion in the Champions Trophy squad. Given his T20I success, the Indian team management is considering whether his talents can effectively transition to the 50-over format. However, Suresh Raina believes that Kuldeep Yadav’s proven record in major tournaments gives him the edge.
“I think Varun is more accustomed to bowling in T20Is for now, while Kuldeep brings variety and the ability to take crucial wickets. Most importantly, he thrives in high-stakes games. I still remember the way he clean-bowled Babar Azam in the 2019 World Cup—he has a special skill set,” he explained.
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Kuldeep carries massive experience in handling big-match pressure, said Raina on Star Sports. Kuldeep is currently part of India’s ODI squad for the England series and has also been named in the Champions Trophy lineup. He featured in the first ODI in Nagpur, delivering figures of 1/53 in 9.4 overs.
While #KuldeepYadav has a lot of experience in ODIs, #VarunChakaravarthy continues to show immense potential when it matters!
Who has #SureshRaina‘s backing to play in the #ChampionsTrophy? The superstar shares his take in this #AskStar special!
📺 Start watching FREE on… pic.twitter.com/kgcYlRQ7BJ
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) February 9, 2025
Earlier, he impressed with a four-wicket haul in the ODI series against Sri Lanka in August 2024, further solidifying his credentials as India’s go-to wrist spinner. Contrasting this, Chakravarthy’s red-hot form cannot be ignored. Since October 2024, he took 31 wickets in 12 innings, averaging just 11.25 with an economy rate of 7.18, including two five-wicket hauls.
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His effect was especially evident during the five-match T20I series against England where he picked 14 wickets at a remarkable average of 9.85, helping him win the Player of the Series award. His performances have catapulted him into the top five of the ICC T20I rankings. The team management is eager to test Chakravarthy’s effectiveness in ODIs, but he will need an exceptional performance in the third ODI against England to strengthen his case for the Champions Trophy. With stiff competition among India’s spinners, he faces a tough battle to secure his spot in the final squad.
