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As India gears up for a high-stakes Champions Trophy 2025 semi-final clash against Australia on March 4, the spotlight is on the bowlers. With the Men in Blue aiming to continue their unbeaten run, selecting the top bowler for this crucial encounter could be decisive.
With Varun Chakaravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav, and Mohammed Shami in the mix, let’s analyze who could rise to the occasion and lead India’s bowling attack.
Table of content
1) Varun Chakaravarthy – The Mystery Spin Weapon
Varun Chakaravarthy stunned everyone with his 5/42 against New Zealand, proving his ability to turn games single-handedly. Known for his mystery spin and deceptive variations, he has been a rising force in India’s white-ball setup.
Varun Chakaravarthy’s Recent Stats
| Tournament | Matches | Wickets | Economy Rate | Best Figures |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Champions Trophy 2025 | 1 | 5 | 4.20 | 5/42 |
| England T20I 2025 | 5 | 14 | 7.67 | 5/24 |
🔹 Strengths: Unpredictable variations, can trouble aggressive batters
🔹 Concerns: Lack of experience against Australia, risk of being decoded
2) Kuldeep Yadav – India’s Wrist-Spin Ace
Kuldeep Yadav has been India’s premier wrist-spinner in ODIs, with a solid record against Australia. In 22 ODIs against them, he has taken 31 wickets but at an economy of 6.00, highlighting both his wicket-taking prowess and vulnerability to aggressive batting.
Kuldeep Yadav’s ODI Record vs Australia
| Matches | Wickets | Economy Rate | Best Figures | Dot Ball % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22 | 31 | 6.00 | 3/54 | 44.3% |
🔹 Strengths: Experience against Australia, ability to deceive batters with turn
🔹 Concerns: Can be expensive on flat tracks, inconsistency in execution
3) Mohammed Shami – The Experienced Spearhead
Mohammed Shami is India’s most experienced fast bowler and has a proven track record against Australia. His ability to strike with the new ball and deliver lethal spells in the death overs makes him a key asset.
Shami’s ODI Stats vs Australia
| Matches | Wickets | Economy Rate | Best Figures | Dot Ball % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 24 | 39 | 6.07 | 5/51 | 56.8% |
🔹 Strengths: Proven match-winner, high-pressure performances
🔹 Concerns: Rusty form in recent matches, needs to find rhythm early
Who Will Be India’s Top Bowler?
Considering the match conditions and the opponent, Shami appears to be the best bet for India against Australia. While Varun Chakaravarthy’s mystery spin and Kuldeep’s wrist spin remain tempting options, Shami’s experience, bounce-back ability, and proven success against Australia make him the most reliable match-winner in this must-win clash.
If Shami finds his rhythm early, his psychological edge over Australia’s middle order could tilt the game in India’s favor and take them one step closer to Champions Trophy glory!
