Aakash Chopra finds new 'Kulcha' in team India after Champions Trophy Triumph

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Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra believes Team India has discovered a fresh spin duo in Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakaravarthy, whom he refers to as the new 'Kulcha.' This term was originally used for the wrist-spin combination of Kuldeep and Yuzvendra Chahal, who once dominated white-ball cricket together.

In the high-stakes final of the 2025 Champions Trophy in Dubai on March 9, Kuldeep and Chakaravarthy played pivotal roles in restricting New Zealand to 251/7. Kuldeep delivered an impressive spell of 2/40 in his 10 overs, while Chakaravarthy contributed with 2/45 in his quota of overs.

Their performances set the stage for India's chase, which was completed with four wickets in hand and an over to spare, securing yet another ICC white-ball title.

In his post-match analysis on YouTube, Chopra acknowledged Kuldeep's crucial breakthroughs. He noted that despite doubts over his selection for the final, the left-arm wrist spinner justified his place by dismissing Rachin Ravindra with a well-executed googly on his very first delivery. Soon after, he removed Kane Williamson, dealing a major blow to the Kiwis. Chopra emphasized how these wickets shifted momentum, setting New Zealand back by 25-30 runs and injecting energy into the contest.

"Kuldeep Yadav has been exceptional. He might have had a dip in form against Australia, but his ability to pick wickets in the middle overs is a skill not many possess," Chopra remarked.

Kuldeep finished the tournament with seven wickets at an economy rate of 4.79, proving to be a key asset in India's bowling lineup.

Chopra also highlighted Varun Chakaravarthy's impactful return to the national side. Initially left out of India's Champions Trophy squad and the playing XI for the first two group matches, the mystery spinner was later drafted in as part of a strategic move to strengthen the spin attack.

"Varun Chakaravarthy wasn't even in the initial selection. His name was a surprise addition, yet he proved his worth in a short span," the former India player noted.

Once given a chance, Chakaravarthy made an immediate impression. He was introduced into the powerplay when New Zealand was off to a flying start, and he responded by dismissing Will Young. In just three matches, he claimed nine wickets at an economy rate of 4.53, playing a significant role in India's success.

India's decision to play four spinners in crucial moments of the tournament proved to be a tactical masterstroke. The combination of traditional wrist spin from Kuldeep and the mystery spin of Chakaravarthy provided the team with a potent weapon against oppositions struggling to read them.

While India has historically relied on dominant pace attacks in ICC events, this tournament highlighted how strategic spin bowling can be equally effective. The emergence of a new 'Kulcha' is not just a nostalgic callback to the past but a sign that India's wrist-spin legacy continues to evolve.