“He is more valuable than even Jasprit Bumrah” - Ex-Indian cricketer reveals India’s weapon ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026

Former Indian cricketer Subramaniam Badrinath has stated that India’s mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy is the current No.1 bowler in the shortest format of the game, adding that he is more valuable than the ace pacer Jasprit Bumrah.

Speaking exclusively on Star Sports, Badrinath asserted that Varun has been the captain’s go-to bowler whenever runs are flowing in the powerplay or middle overs, or even in the death overs, adding that the spinner has taken his game to the next level.

"Numbers tell us that Varun Chakaravarthy is the No. 1 T20 bowler in the world. He is more valuable than even Bumrah. Whenever the runs are flowing in the powerplay or the middle overs or even in the 18th over, Varun is the go-to bowler. He has gone to a different level with his game. A superb comeback after being given a chance initially and getting dropped because of fitness. But in this second phase after his comeback, he has taken his game to the next level," Badrinath told Star Sports.

Speaking about Chakravarthy's T20I numbers, he has pocketed 45 wickets in only 29 T20Is at an average of 15.68 with the best figures of 5/17, which came against South Africa away from home in November last year.

Furthermore, the former Indian cricketer also asserted that the mystery spinner will play a crucial role for the Indian team in the forthcoming ICC T20 World Cup 2026, scheduled to be held in India and Sri Lanka next year.

"He's a huge asset for India, in fact, even a weapon. In the future, with the T20 World Cup in India, he will be the most crucial factor. If Varun has a good day, there is a great chance the Indian team will have a good day," he concluded.

Notably, Varun has been a constant member of the Indian T20I playing XI and he would be next seen in the three-match T20I series against South Africa at home.

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