T20 World Cup 2026: ‘Come closer to the stumps’ – Former all-rounder’s advice to Varun Chakravarthy ahead of virtual knockout against West Indies

Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has expressed concern over Varun Chakravarthy’s form ahead of India’s virtual knockout clash against West Indies at Eden Gardens on March 1.

The mystery spinner made a marvellous start to the tournament, bagging nine wickets in four group-stage matches, including two three-wicket hauls. However, he had an uncharacteristically expensive outing against South Africa, returning figures of 1 for 47. He followed that with another lukewarm show against Zimbabwe, picking a solitary wicket for 35 runs in India’s 72-run win in Chennai.

Pathan reckoned that the back-to-back underwhelming performances from the premier spinner could be a concern for the team going into a must-win encounter against West Indies. Pathan also analysed the changes made by the spinner in his methods, highlighting that he has been bowling too short, especially to the right-handed batters.

“The concern remains Varun Chakravarthy. About 63% of his deliveries were too short. He usually bowls a shorter length compared to traditional spinners, but not this short. In the last two matches, he has bowled fuller to left-handers but too short to right-handers. If this is a conscious tactical shift, it could complicate things,” Pathan said on his YouTube channel.

However, the former all-rounder backed Chakravarthy to rediscover his form at Eden Gardens. Chakravarthy possesses significant knowledge of the venue and conditions as Kolkata Knight Riders’ (KKR) key spinner.

“Against West Indies in Kolkata — a pitch he knows well — he can bounce back. Just a slight adjustment in length, maybe come closer to the stumps around the wicket to left-handers, and he’ll be back. If he picks up an early wicket, he can create serious pressure,” he added.

Despite the minor blip in his form. Chakravarthy stands as the fifth-highest wicket-taker in the tournament so far, with 11 wickets in six matches at an economy of 7.20.

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