India and England are set to clash in the first ODI of the three-match series on February 6, 2025, at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium in Nagpur. With India coming off a dominant 4-1 win in the T20I series, they will look to carry that momentum into the 50-over format. The match, starting at 1:30 PM IST, promises an exciting battle between India’s formidable home record and England’s aggressive approach.
Leg spinner Varun Chakravarthy, who had bamboozled the English batters in the T20I series with 14 wickets in five matches, including a sensational five-wicket haul, has now earned a spot in the ODI squad for the upcoming three-match series against England. With his inclusion, India’s spin department now boasts five options, alongside Kuldeep Yadav, Washington Sundar, Axar Patel, and Ravindra Jadeja. The national selectors have until the end of the upcoming series to finalize the squad for the ICC Champions Trophy.
Varun Chakravarthy is a mystery spinner known for his deceptive variations and ability to trouble batters with his unpredictable deliveries. He possesses a diverse skill set, including leg-breaks, off-breaks, googlies, carrom balls, and flippers, making him a challenging bowler to face. His accuracy and control allow him to bowl tight lines, often restricting scoring opportunities while also being a potent wicket-taking option. With his unique ability to mix pace and spin, he remains a crucial asset in the whote ball formats.
According to reports, he participated in fielding drills with the team in Nagpur on Tuesday before bowling to Virat Kohli and Shubman Gill.
Varun Chakravarthy’s performance against England in T20i series
Indian msytery spinner, Varun Chakravarthy was sensational in the T20I series against England, finishing as the highest wicket-taker with 14 scalps in five matches. His mystery spin proved to be a nightmare for the English batters, as he consistently outfoxed them with his variations.
He delivered a standout performance in the third T20I, claiming a brilliant five-wicket haul that dismantled England’s batting lineup. His ability to maintain tight lines and mix up his deliveries played a crucial role in India’s dominance, making him one of the key architects of their series victory.
