''I Have A Feeling He Might Make It'', India Legend Backs Varun Chakravarthy To Make It To Champions Trophy 2025 Squad

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Indian cricket legend Ravichandran Ashwin has voiced his support for Tamil Nadu spinner Varun Chakaravarthy, urging the BCCI to consider him for India's Champions Trophy 2025 squad.

Chakaravarthy has been in red-hot form, claiming 14 wickets in five matches during the recently concluded T20I series against England, which earned him the Player of the Series award.

His stellar performances also extended to the T20I series against South Africa in November 2024, where he picked up 12 wickets in four matches.

Ashwin, who retired from international cricket on December 18, 2024, expressed his confidence in Chakaravarthy's potential inclusion in the Champions Trophy squad. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin remarked, "We are all talking about whether he should have been there (Champions Trophy squad). I am thinking there is a chance he might be there. 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."

However, Ashwin acknowledged the selection dilemma, adding, "But, if you look at the existing squad, 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."

Reflecting on his own Champions Trophy experience, where he played a crucial role in India's 2013 title win under MS Dhoni's leadership, Ashwin suggested that Chakaravarthy might get an opportunity in the upcoming ODI series against England. "I have a feeling that Varun might get a chance to play in the ODI series between India and England. I don't think it's an easy call to take him directly to the Champions Trophy. He has not played ODIs. I have a feeling they will give him a chance in the India vs England ODI series," Ashwin stated.

The 38-year-old emphasized the importance of giving Chakaravarthy an ODI opportunity before making a Champions Trophy decision. "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 Chakaravarthy of T20I cricket at the moment. I wish he grows more and more," he concluded.

While Chakaravarthy is not currently part of India's ODI squad for the England series, his recent performances could pave the way for his inclusion in the coming days.