Daijiworld Media Network - Ahmedabad

Ahmedabad, Mar 7: India’s leading wicket-taker in the T20 World Cup 2026, Varun Chakravarthy, came under the spotlight after conceding 64 runs in four overs in the semi-final against England, as Jacob Bethell hammered him for three consecutive sixes in the first over. India went on to lose by seven runs, raising questions over Varun’s form.

Since the Super Eights, Varun has struggled to maintain consistency, with an economy rate of 11.62, putting his place in the playing XI under scrutiny. Bowling coach Morne Morkel had backed him to regain momentum, but with talented spinners like Kuldeep Yadav waiting in the wings, India’s management faces a tough decision.

Experts and teammates noted that Varun’s main issue has been overthinking, often dwelling on the previous ball instead of focusing on the next. Wicketkeeper Sanju Samson was seen repeatedly guiding him during the semi-final to regain composure.

With India’s sixth bowling option, Shivam Dube, expensive at 14.12, the team cannot afford a fifth bowler to be out of form. The only factor in Varun’s favour is the momentum of the winning XI, which teams often back.

The Narendra Modi Stadium pitch, a mix of black and red soil, is expected to favour batters, possibly prompting India to play an extra seamer like Mohammed Siraj, similar to South Africa’s strategy in the Super Eights clash. This opens the possibility of Varun being dropped.

Left-arm spinner Washington Sundar could also be considered against New Zealand’s four left-handed batters. However, replacing Varun with Washington may not make tactical sense, and Axar Patel cannot be dropped after his strong performance against England.

India’s team management will need to carefully weigh options as they prepare for the next clash, with Varun’s spot in the XI very much up in the air.