• Home
  • Who Said What
  • Its Not An Easy Choice Ashwin Calls For Bold Change In Champions Trophy Squad

'It's Not An Easy Choice': Ashwin Calls For Bold Change In Champions Trophy Squad

Soumyajit Dutta∙ Updated: Feb 4 2025, 10:25 AM

Ashwin Wants Varun Chakravarthy to be added in Champions Trophy squad [Source: @RamanRo45/X.com]Ashwin Wants Varun Chakravarthy to be added in Champions Trophy squad [Source: @RamanRo45/X.com]

India’s provisional squad for the ICC Champions Trophy includes four spinners, but veteran all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin believes a change can better strengthen India's prospects for Champions Trophy.

Ashwin suggested that spinner Varun Chakravarthy could still secure a spot. Chakravarthy’s standout performance in the recent T20I series against England, where he claimed 14 wickets in five matches and earned the Player of the Series award, has sparked discussions about his potential inclusion in the 50-over squad.  

Ashwin's Bold Claim Might Unsettle Rohit

While Chakravarthy is yet to play an ODI for India, he is expected to make his debut in the upcoming three-match ODI series against England. Ashwin suggested that if the 32-year-old impresses in the 50-over format, the selection committee led by Ajit Agarkar might reconsider the Champions Trophy squad before the February 11 deadline for final changes.  

“People are debating whether Varun should have been in the initial squad, but I feel there’s still a chance. Since teams have only announced provisional squads, changes are possible. If he performs well against England, the selectors might rethink their decision,” Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.  

However, adding Chakravarthy would mean India would carry five spinners, requiring a tough decision on which player to drop. Ashwin questioned whether the team would replace a fast bowler with an extra spinner, emphasizing the complexity of the choice for captain Rohit Sharma and the management.  

Ashwin Backs Chakravarthy For The Big Stage

Ashwin also stressed the importance of giving Chakravarthy an opportunity in the ODI series to prove his readiness. Ashwin also didn't mince his words as he praised the mystery spinner on his recent success.

“It won’t be easy to pick him directly for the Champions Trophy without ODI experience. I think they’ll test him in the England series. If not, his chances might fade. He’s currently the star of India’s T20I bowling attack. I hope he continues to grow and shine,” Ashwin remarked.  

With the ODI series against England serving as a critical audition, all eyes will be on Chakravarthy as he aims to secure his spot for the Champions Trophy. 

Meanwhile, India is all ready to take on England in the 1st ODI on February 6. The three-match series will be an exciting affair to watch as it will potentially foretell the Champions Trophy journey of India which begins on February 19.