Will Varun Chakravarthy be India's X-factor against Australia?
Author: Srishti Bhattacharya
Updated At:
Varun Chakravarthy has been a key player for India in this tournament, and his role in the India vs Australia semi-final will be crucial. His recent spell against New Zealand, where he picked up five wickets, showed how dangerous he can be in the middle overs. With spinners taking 20 out of the 47 wickets in the last three matches at Dubai, conditions are expected to favor him again. However, he will have a tough challenge against Australia’s batting lineup, especially their middle order.
Chakravarthy vs Travis Head
Travis Head has struggled against right-arm off-break bowlers, and this is where Chakravarthy can exploit his weakness. With his ability to turn the ball both ways and mix up his pace, he could create problems for Head early in the innings. If he manages to get his wicket, it will put Australia under pressure straight away. Head can be lethal against fast bowlers and score runs at a fast pace and has often troubled the Indian team in knockout stages.
A Tough Challenge Against Australia’s Middle Order
While Head may struggle, Chakravarthy will have to be at his best against Australia’s middle order.
-
Steve Smith averages 52.1 against off-break bowlers.
-
Marnus Labuschagne averages 54.5 against off-break bowlers.
-
Glenn Maxwell averages 43.7 against off-break bowlers.
These numbers show that Australia’s key batters are comfortable against spin. Chakravarthy will have to rely on his accuracy and variations to keep them in check. His carrom ball, googly, and quicker deliveries will be crucial in breaking partnerships and stopping the flow of runs.
If Chakravarthy can keep things tight and pick up important wickets in the middle overs, India will have a strong chance of winning the semi-final. With the conditions at Dubai International Stadium favoring spinners, this could be a match-winning opportunity for him. While India do enter this contest as favourites where their chance of winning is 62% and Australia's chance of winning is 38%.
READ NEXT
New South Wales Clinch 21st WNCL Title with Thrilling Win Over Queensland
New South Wales secured their 21st WNCL title with a thrilling victory over Queensland, showcasing stellar performances and resilience in a gripping final.
KKR Team Preview - KKR Chances of Winning IPL 2025
In this article, we bring you a detailed analysis of the KKR squad for IPL 2025.