Raina backs Kuldeep Yadav over Chakravarthy for Champions Trophy 2025
What's the story
Former Indian cricketer Suresh Raina has lent his voice to support Kuldeep Yadav's inclusion in the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025. This is despite Varun Chakravarthy's impressive debut against England in the second ODI on Sunday, February 9 at Barabati Stadium, Cuttack. Raina feels Yadav's experience in high-stakes matches makes him a better choice than newcomer Chakravarthy.
Debut performance
Chakravarthy's debut and rise in international cricket
Chakravarthy made a decent debut in ODI cricket with 1/53 in 10 overs, including the wicket of Philip Salt. Ever since he returned to the international fold in October 2024, he has been the talk of the town. This has led to debates over his inclusion in India's squad for the Champions Trophy.
Experience matters
Raina's rationale for preferring Yadav over Chakravarthy
Speaking on Star Sports, Raina emphasized Yadav's versatility and wicket-taking ability. He said, "I think Varun is more used to bowling in T20Is for now, while Kuldeep has variety and wicket-taking ability." He also stressed on Yadav's experience of playing big matches as an important factor.
Track record
Yadav's performance in ongoing series and Champions Trophy
Yadav is also a part of India's squad for the ongoing series against England and the Champions Trophy. In the first ODI in Nagpur, he returned with figures of 1/53 in 9.4 overs. Earlier, he had taken four wickets from three matches in an ODI series against Sri Lanka in August 2024, further strengthening his case for selection.
Stellar performance
Chakravarthy's outstanding form since return to international cricket
Notably, Chakravarthy has been in phenomenal form since his return to international cricket. He has taken 31 wickets from 12 innings at an average of 11.25 and an economy of 7.18 (including two five-wicket hauls). His recent performance also earned him the Player of the Series title in a five-match T20I series against England, where he took 14 wickets from five games at an average of just 9.85.
Ranking surge
Chakravarthy's rise in ICC T20I rankings and ODI debut
Chakravarthy's stunning performance has catapulted him to the top five of the ICC T20I rankings. At 33 years and 164 days old, he also became India's second-oldest debutant in ODIs after legendary wicketkeeper Farokh Engineer. His inclusion is viewed as a tactical move by team management, who are looking to fast-track him for the Champions Trophy 2025 if Jasprit Bumrah fails to recover in time.