New Delhi: As India gears up for the T20 World Cup 2026 final against New Zealand, former Indian spinner Anil Kumble has raised alarms over Varun Chakravarthy’s dip in form, warning it could pile immense pressure on star pacer Jasprit Bumrah.
Chakravarthy dazzled in the group stages but faltered badly in the Super-8 round and the semi-final against England at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium. In that crucial match, he leaked 64 runs off just four overs for a single wicket – his most expensive T20 spell ever. Against West Indies too, he conceded 40 runs, totaling 104 runs for two wickets across these two games.
Speaking on ESPN Cricinfo, Kumble expressed concern: ‘This is a worry for India because Varun has been a key bowler, especially in the middle overs where he picks wickets. His absence in form means teams will only fear Bumrah’s four overs, which isn’t ideal.’
Despite Kuldeep Yadav waiting on the bench, captain Suryakumar Yadav stuck with Varun, showing unwavering faith. However, eight of Varun’s 11 most expensive spells have come since December 2025, signaling a troubling trend.
The stakes are sky-high. India has never beaten New Zealand in T20 World Cup history, and their record at Ahmedabad isn’t stellar either. New Zealand, reaching their second final since 2021, will be hungry for revenge after Australia’s heartbreak in the previous edition.
Will India persist with Varun or turn to Kuldeep’s experience? The final could hinge on this call, with Bumrah bearing the brunt if Chakravarthy doesn’t recover.