Former Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin addressed the misunderstanding surrounding his comment about bringing in mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy early in the attack against New Zealand during a Champions Trophy match. He criticized online trolls for misinterpreting his remark.
Chakravarthy was brought into the attack in the sixth over of the first innings. Ashwin commented on India captain Rohit Sharma’s decision on social media, writing, ‘Varun in early! Not ideal.’ Rohit’s strategy proved successful as he broke the opening partnership by dismissing Will Young. This breakthrough allowed Kuldeep Yadav to capitalize and further pressure the New Zealand batting lineup with his spin bowling.
Some fans responded negatively to Ashwin’s comment, accusing him of criticizing Rohit’s captaincy. Ashwin clarified that his tweet was actually about New Zealand’s aggressive start forcing India to introduce Varun into the attack earlier than perhaps planned.
He further explained, ‘How is this tweet about captaincy? It’s unbelievable how fans misinterpret things. The tweet was about how New Zealand’s aggressive start forced us to use Varun early on.’
Chakravarthy concluded with figures of 2 wickets for 45 runs in his 10 overs. Throughout the tournament, he took 9 wickets in 3 matches, becoming the second-highest wicket-taker in the competition.
New Zealand won the toss and chose to bat first. They began strongly with a 57-run opening stand between Will Young (15) and Rachin Ravindra (37 off 29 balls). However, Kuldeep Yadav (2/40) slowed their momentum, reducing New Zealand to 75/3.
A 57-run partnership between Daryl Mitchell (63 off 101 balls) and Michael Bracewell further advanced the innings. Bracewell contributed an unbeaten 53 off 40 balls, helping New Zealand reach a total of 251/7 in their 50 overs.
Kuldeep (2/40) and Varun (2/45) were the leading wicket-takers for India. Mohammed Shami took one wicket but conceded 74 runs in his 9 overs.
