In game two of the three-match series, the Indian team gave mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy his maiden ODI cap. On Sunday, February 9, Varun was given his cap by Ravindra Jadeja following an incredible T20I series against England in which he claimed 14 wickets in 5 games. At the age of 33 years and 164 days, Varun surpassed Ajit Wadekar to become India's second-oldest ODI debutant.
He is right behind wicketkeeper Farokh Engineer, who made his debut in 1974 aged 36 years and 138 days. In the recently finished Vijay Hazare Trophy, India's top 50-over competition, Varun emerged as the best spinner and has been progressively improving in the format.
Oldest players to make ODI Debuts for India
Farokh Engineer: 36 years, 138 days vs England
Varun Chakaravarthy: 33 years, 164 days vs England
Ajit Wadekar: 33 years, 103 days vs England
Dilip Doshi: 32 years, 350 days vs Australia
Syed Abid Ali: 32 years, 276 days vs England
Varun keeps Champions Trophy 2025 hopes alive
The Indian team's decision to include Varun in the ODI XI is significant since it might expedite his path to the 2025 Champions Trophy. If Jasprit Bumrah is unable to recuperate in time for the ICC competition, India has Varun on hand as an emergency backup. In the just-finished T20I series, Varun was the most impressive bowler, dominating the England batters in each match. England lost wickets in clusters against Varun and failed to understand him in any clash of the series. Kuldeep Yadav, who took just one wicket in the opening match, was replaced in the lineup by the spinner on Sunday.
India made several changes on Sunday besides Varun. Yashasvi Jaiswal, who made his debut in the previous game, was benched by the team. After missing the first game because of a knee injury, Virat Kohli made his comeback to the playing XI.
The batter, who took Jaiswal's spot, is anticipated to bat at number three in the lineup, with Shreyas Iyer at number four. In contrast, England completely overhauled their lower order. For the match, Brydon Carse, Jacob Bethell, and Jofra Archer were rested. Jamie Overton, Gus Atkinson, and Mark Wood entered the playing XI.