Why Varun Chakravarthy Isn’t Playing Today Against Pakistan? | ICC Champions Trophy 2025

As cricket fans gear up for the high-voltage clash between India and Pakistan in ICC Champions Trophy 2025, one major question has emerged: Why is Varun Chakravarthy not playing today?

While most fans are aware of his exclusion, this blog is for those seeking an official update on Varun Chakravarthy’s fitness, team management decisions, and how it impacts India’s strategy in today’s crucial match.

Why Is Varun Chakravarthy Not Playing Today?

1. Injury Concerns – Fitness Issues Keep Chakravarthy Out

Varun Chakravarthy was included in India’s Champions Trophy squad as a potential X-factor spinner, but unfortunately, he suffered a calf injury ahead of the tournament.

 Key Updates on Chakravarthy’s Fitness:

He sustained an injury before the final ODI against England in February 2025.

Although he was selected in the squad, team management decided not to risk playing him as he is still recovering.

He has not featured in any match so far, indicating his fitness remains a concern.

2. Official Statement from Team India Management

India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir commented on Chakravarthy’s absence, stating:

“Varun Chakravarthy is an important part of our bowling attack, but we don’t want to rush his return. We have a strong bowling unit, and we are confident in our available options.”

This confirms that Chakravarthy’s exclusion is purely due to injury concerns, and he will likely return once he is fully fit.

How Does Varun Chakravarthy’s Absence Impact Team India?

1. Strength of India’s Spin Attack Without Chakravarthy

Even without Varun Chakravarthy, India has a well-rounded bowling attack.

Spin Options Available Today:

Kuldeep Yadav – A proven wicket-taker in ODIs.

Ravindra Jadeja – Provides both economy and breakthrough potential.

Axar Patel – Adds variety with his left-arm spin and all-round ability.

India’s spin department remains strong, ensuring that Chakravarthy’s absence does not severely impact the team’s balance.

2. India’s Playing XI Against Pakistan

Despite missing Chakravarthy, India has not made any major changes to their squad.

India’s Playing XI Today vs Pakistan:

Batters: Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer

Wicketkeeper: KL Rahul

All-rounders: Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja

Bowlers: Mohammed Shami, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana

With Harshit Rana replacing injured Jasprit Bumrah, and the spin trio of Jadeja, Axar, and Kuldeep, India still has a well-balanced bowling lineup.

How Long Will Varun Chakravarthy Be Out?

Expected Return Date:

Chakravarthy’s recovery is being closely monitored.

He could be available for India’s final group-stage game if his fitness improves.

The team management will reassess his condition before knockout matches.

This means fans might still get to see Chakravarthy’s mystery spin in the later stages of the tournament.

Can India Win Without Varun Chakravarthy?

Despite missing Chakravarthy’s:

Mystery spin factor

Ability to contain runs in middle overs

Variation against Pakistan’s middle-order batters

India still has a strong squad capable of winning today’s match. The team’s experience, all-round depth, and in-form bowlers make them formidab…

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