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Xtra Time Web Desk: Indian cricket fans showered Varun Chakravarthy with praise after the mystery spinner dismissed Australia’s Travis Head in the Champions Trophy semi-final on March 4 in Dubai. Already in top form following his five-wicket haul against New Zealand in India’s final group-stage match, Chakravarthy provided a crucial breakthrough by removing Head—who has often been India’s nemesis in ICC events.

Introduced into the attack in the ninth over, Chakravarthy struck immediately, taking just one ball to make an impact. Head, who was looking dangerous after a fluent start, attempted an aggressive shot but mistimed it, sending the ball high towards long-on. Vice-captain Shubman Gill displayed sharp awareness to complete a brilliant catch, ending Head’s innings at 39.

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At that stage, Australia seemed in control after winning the toss and electing to bat first. However, with Cooper Connolly dismissed earlier and Head now back in the pavilion, they suddenly found themselves in a tricky position at 54/2.

Indian fans took to social media to celebrate Chakravarthy’s breakthrough, hailing him as a "national treasure" and lauding his impact in just his second ODI tournament. Many highlighted how vital Head’s dismissal was, given his history of tormenting India in major ICC events, including his match-winning knock in the 2023 ODI World Cup final.

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As the Champions Trophy semi-final unfolds, India will be hoping for more magic from Chakravarthy, while Australia looks to recover from the early blows.