Varun Chakaravarthy Ruled Out! 3 players BCCI could pick as his replacement today

Team India have suffered an injury blow ahead of the remaining T20Is against Afghanistan. The mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy has been ruled out of the T20 series after suffering a side strain following the first match. An MRI scan confirmed the injury.

With the Asian Games 2026 also scheduled this month, there is still uncertainty over whether Varun will be fit enough to take part in the tournament.

His absence could force the selectors to look for another option. Here are three players who could replace Varun Chakravarthy in Team India.

Kuldeep Yadav could be the most obvious replacement for Varun. The left-arm wrist-spinner has plenty of international experience and has been one of India’s most effective spin bowlers across formats.

Kuldeep has picked up 95 wickets in 54 T20I matches, with an economy rate below seven and an impressive bowling average of 13.74, according to the figures provided. He has also taken 5 wickets in a T20I innings twice.

With Washington Sundar, Ravi Bishnoi and Axar Patel already in the squad, adding Kuldeep would give India another proven spin option.

Krunal Pandya is another name who could come into consideration. Unlike Varun, Krunal is a genuine all-rounder who can contribute with both bat and ball.

However, his left-arm spin remains his biggest strength in T20 cricket. Krunal has also shown that he can trouble batters with variations and changes of pace.

There has been talk of a possible Krunal Pandya comeback to Team India, and Varun’s injury could open the door for him. His ability to contribute with the bat could also give the team an extra option in the lower middle order.

India could also decide to go for a pace option instead of another spinner. With Washington Sundar, Ravi Bishnoi and Axar Patel already available, the selectors have enough spin choices in the squad.

That could make Mayank Yadav an interesting option. The young fast bowler has the pace to trouble batters and could provide India with something different from their existing bowling attack. His ability to consistently bowl at high speeds makes him an exciting backup option for the T20 side.

Kuldeep Yadav appears to be the most natural replacement if India want to maintain their spin-heavy combination.

Krunal Pandya offers the added advantage of being an all-rounder, while Mayank Yadav could be considered if the team wants to strengthen its pace attack.

The final decision will depend on the team’s combination and Varun Chakravarthy’s recovery ahead of the Asian Games.

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