Champions Trophy semi-final: Ashwin backs Chakravarthy to shine against Australia
What's the story
Former Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin has praised captain Rohit Sharma and head coach Gautam Gambhir's decision to include spinner Varun Chakravarthy in the team for the final group-stage match of the Champions Trophy.
His five-wicket haul against New Zealand helped India win by 44 runs.
The match was played on March 2 in Dubai and has set a positive tone for their semi-final clash with Australia on March 4 at the same venue.
Praise
Ashwin commends Rohit and Gambhir's decision-making
Ashwin praised Rohit and Gambhir for their smart decision to bring in Chakravarthy in place of Harshit Rana, a change that had confused many fans at first.
The off-spinner lived up to the expectations by ripping apart the New Zealand batting order, winning the Player of the Match award.
"I have to say this: top-class scouting," Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.
Strategy
Australia will strategize against Chakravarthy in semi-final
Looking ahead, Ashwin expects Australia to come up with a plan to tackle Chakravarthy in their semi-final.
The Dubai pitch has been spinner-friendly, and with Varun's unorthodox bowling, he could prove to be a huge weapon against their arch-rivals.
Despite his limited ODI experience—having made his debut only recently in the Cuttack ODI against England—Varun has adjusted to the format quickly.
His performance against New Zealand proved his worth as India's X-factor in this tournament.
Confidence
Ashwin believes Varun's skill will unsettle the Australians
Ashwin was confident Varun would unsettle the Australian batsmen.
"I don't think playing Varun is a risk. I think they are not able to read him at all," Ashwin said.
He added Varun's unique bowling makes him a tough opponent for the opposition.
This belief strengthens India's strategy as they gear up for their high-stakes clash against Australia in the Champions Trophy semi-final on March 4.