Chakravarthy was a last-minute addition to India’s Champions Trophy squad, replacing Yashasvi Jaiswal due to his impressive T20 season. Captain Rohit Sharma praised Chakravarthy’s unique bowling style, emphasizing that he has a special weapon he reserves for crucial moments. The team’s performance hinges on the form of bowlers Mohammed Shami and Kuldeep Yadav, both returning from injuries. Rohit highlighted the importance of Shami’s presence in the squad despite limited recent play, while noting Kuldeep’s recovery from a hernia operation. A strong performance from these bowlers would significantly enhance the team’s prospects in the tournament.
Chakravarthy was a late addition to the India squad for the Champions Trophy, replacing opener Yashasvi Jaiswal. The mystery spinner earned his place after an outstanding season in the T20 format. When questioned about Chakravarthy’s inclusion, Rohit explained that he was selected for a specific reason. “He doesn’t showcase many variations in the nets. He delivers the ball similarly each time. Perhaps he even prefers not to reveal his skills to us (laughs). But that’s actually a positive aspect. He possesses a unique weapon that he chooses to reveal only when it truly counts.”
“I am more than happy if he decides to do that. However, he brings something different to the table, which is why he is here with us. Everything we’ve seen from him in the past 8-9 months has been quite impressive.”
‘If Shami, Kuldeep are in form, team looks very good’
Both Mohammed Shami and Kuldeep Yadav have had limited international appearances due to injuries. Though they have returned to the team, they are still finding their form. With Bumrah unavailable, expectations have intensified for Shami, who was India’s leading bowler in the 2023 ODI World Cup.
“Both of them are in good bowling shape. Shami has participated in just two ODIs and a couple of T20s. Our primary goal for Shami was to return to wearing the Indian jersey above anything else.
“It didn’t matter whether he took wickets or not at that time. We just wanted him back playing for India, and he has achieved that.
“From what I’ve observed, he appears to be in great form. When discussing a bowler of Shami’s caliber, who has consistently delivered for us over the years, it’s essential for them to rediscover their rhythm. Hopefully, we can find that groove early in this tournament to support the team.” Regarding Kuldeep, the skipper noted: “Kuldeep faced a similar situation; he was injured and underwent hernia surgery right after the New Zealand series, leaving him sidelined for two and a half months.”
“For him, it was crucial to resume playing and regain that rhythm. The two matches he has played may not reflect his performance through the numbers, and sometimes with certain players, it’s unnecessary to scrutinize the stats too closely.
“In the case of particular players, the key is merely returning to the game. If both of these players are in form, the team looks very promising.”
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