IND vs BAN: Chakravarthy's stellar comeback spell boosts India's performance
Xtra Time Web Desk: India spinner Varun Chakravarthy made a remarkable comeback after a hiatus of two years and 11 months during the first T20I against Bangladesh on Sunday, October 6, in Gwalior. The wrist spinner showcased his talent by taking 3 wickets for 31 runs, effectively dismantling the Bangladesh middle order.
Chakravarthy began his spell in the fifth over, immediately creating a chance when Towhid Hridoy hit a catch towards square leg. However, debutant Nitish Kumar Reddy misjudged the catch, allowing the ball to go for a boundary. Following this, Hridoy scored another four and was later cleared for a six by captain Najmul Hossain Shanto, resulting in Chakravarthy conceding 15 runs in his opening over.
Read More:
Women's T20 WC: Will Harmanpreet Kaur's injury impact India's T20 World Cup hopes?
The 33-year-old bounced back brilliantly in his subsequent over, dismissing Hridoy (12 off 18) and claiming his first wicket. He further showcased his skill by cleaning up Jaker Ali with a googly and later took out Rishad Hossain (11 off 5), concluding with impressive figures of 3/31, marking his best in T20Is.
Chakravarthy last played for India during the ICC T20 World Cup 2021 against Scotland, missing a total of 86 matches since then. Meanwhile, debutant Mayank Yadav also shone, beginning his T20I career with a maiden over and claiming his first international wicket by dismissing Mahmudullah (1 off 2) in his second over.
Chakravarthy's impressive return not only strengthens India’s bowling lineup but also signals a bright future for the spinner as he seeks to make his mark in international cricket once again.