More lethal than Jasprit Bumrah? Ex-India captain makes big claim on Varun Chakravarthy
Times of India
by TOI SPORTS DESKFebruary 19, 2026
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Former India captain Kris Srikkanth has hailed Varun Chakravarthy as India’s most dangerous bowler in the T20 World Cup 2026, even suggesting that the mystery spinner is more lethal than star fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah. Srikkanth praised Varun for his exceptional performance, highlighting his ability to deceive batters with his variations and inconsistent run-up, which makes it difficult for opponents to read his deliveries.
Varun has been in stellar form, claiming nine wickets in four matches at an impressive average of 6.88 and an economy rate of 5.16. His standout performance came against the Netherlands, where he took three wickets for just 14 runs in three overs. Srikkanth noted that Varun’s deliveries are primarily around off-stump and middle-stump, with his googly arriving sharply and his shorter balls being deceptive. This unpredictability, combined with multiple speed changes, makes him a formidable opponent.
The former captain also pointed out that Varun leads the wicket tally when compared alongside Bumrah, with 30 wickets in 21 joint appearances. Srikkanth emphasized that batters struggle to face Varun, as they are unsure whether to defend or attack his deliveries. This lack of clarity, combined with Varun’s consistency and match-winning performances, has led Srikkanth to label him a modern-day great.
Despite his impressive numbers, Varun often goes unnoticed, particularly in Player of the Match debates. Srikkanth questioned why Varun wasn’t even considered for the award after his exceptional figures against the Netherlands. Since his international comeback, Varun has taken 47 wickets in 27 matches, including
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/19/2026