Former Indian cricketer and cricket analyst, Subramaniam Badrinath, has recently sparked a debate by claiming that Varun Chakravarthy has surpassed Jasprit Bumrah as India’s most valuable bowler in T20 International cricket. Badrinath made this assertion after India’s recent series victory against Australia, where Chakravarthy played a pivotal role.
According to analysis and recent performances, Chakravarthy’s contribution to the Indian team’s success has been exceptional. He took five wickets in the series, emerging as India’s highest wicket-taker, and proved his ability to bowl effectively across all phases of the game—powerplay, middle overs, and death overs. His return to the national team in late 2024 after a hiatus due to fitness issues has been remarkable, and he has since climbed to the top of the men’s T20I bowling rankings. His recent performances include 43 wickets in 23 matches, with a notable economy rate of 6.83, which is impressive given the high-pressure scenarios he often bowls in.
Badrinath emphasized that Chakravarthy’s versatility and consistency make him an unmatched asset in the T20 format, especially ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup in India. He highlighted that whenever Chakravarthy has a good day, the Indian team’s chances of winning skyrocket, marking him as an invaluable weapon in the Indian cricket setup. The former cricketer also cited the fact that Chakravarthy’s robust performance after his comeback signifies an extraordinary level of progress, especially considering he was initially dropped due to fitness concerns.
While Jasprit Bumrah remains a key player for India in Tests and ODIs, Badrinath’s assessment underscores that Chakravarthy’s impact in the T20 format currently surpasses Bumrah’s, at least in terms of recent form, influence, and strategic value. This change in perception highlights the evolving landscape of Indian bowling, with Chakravarthy emerging as a crucial player in the shortest format of the game.
