India’s star spinner, Varun Chakravarthy, single handedly destroyed England's batting lineup taking five wickets for 24 runs in his four-over spell during India vs England 3rd T20I At Rajkot.
The 33-year-old sealed his fifer with a stunning delivery on the final ball of his spell, dismissing Jofra Archer with a deceptive googly that shattered the stumps. Archer, who had defended the previous ball, could only watch in astonishment.
This marks Chakravarthy’s second five-wicket haul in T20I cricket, his first coming against South Africa last year in a match that India narrowly lost. Representing Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL, Chakravarthy once again showcased his ability to bamboozle batters with his variations.
India on top against England in Rajkot
Suryakumar Yadav won the toss for third straight time and asked England to bat first. After losing Phil Salt early, England dominating with Ben Duckett and Jos Buttler scoring freely. However, Chakravarthy’s introduction into the attack shifted the momentum in India’s favor. He started by dismissing Buttler, who attempted a reverse sweep but ended up giving a sharp catch to Sanju Samson.
Jamie Smith briefly countered with a towering six but perished on the very next ball, miscuing a shot that was smartly caught by Dhruv Jurel. Chakravarthy struck again immediately, clean bowling Jamie Overton with a clever delivery that left the batter stunned. Overton’s dismissal for a golden duck further rattled England’s lineup.
Brydon Carse became Chakravarthy’s fourth victim, lofting a catch to Tilak Varma in the deep. The grand finale came with Archer’s dismissal, as Chakravarthy’s brilliance brought India roaring back into contention. His teammates mobbed him in celebration, acknowledging his pivotal role in turning the game around.
