With the T20 World Cup 2026 final against New Zealand looming, legendary spinner Anil Kumble flags Varun Chakravarthy’s poor run as a risk that burdens Jasprit Bumrah disproportionately for Team India.
Varun dominated group play but crumbled in Super-8 and the England semi at Wankhede, where four overs yielded one wicket at 64 runs – his priciest T20 effort. West Indies saw another 40-run leak, totaling 104 for two in these games.
Kumble told ESPN Cricinfo: ‘Varun breaks partnerships mid-innings. Lacking that, foes plan around Bumrah alone – not a winning formula.’
Even with Kuldeep on standby, skipper Suryakumar stood by Varun. Alarmingly, most of his costliest spells post-date December 2025.
India faces ghosts: Undefeated New Zealand in T20 World Cup clashes, Ahmedabad’s ICC jinx. Kiwis chase elusive crown after 2021 semis loss.
Final verdict? Varun’s inclusion or Kuldeep switch? The choice could define India’s campaign, with Bumrah’s endurance under scanner.