Varun Chakaravarthy vs Ravi Bishnoi: Who is the T20I King After 35 Matches?

The Indian cricket team is currently dominating the T20I series against. New Zealand, holding a commanding 3-0 lead in the five-match series. Amidst this dominance, the team management's decision to rest mystery spinner Varun Chakaravarthy and bring. In Ravi Bishnoi for the third T20I has sparked a massive debate among fans and experts. Bishnoi seized the opportunity, returning figures of 2/18 in his four overs, but how does he truly compare to Varun Chakaravarthy when we look at their first 35 T20I matches?

The Wicket Tally: Varun Takes the Lead

When comparing the two spinners after 35 T20I matches, Varun Chakaravarthy holds a slight edge in terms of pure numbers, while in his 35 matches (33 innings), Varun has scalped 58 wickets at an incredible average of 15. 34. His ability to deceive batsmen with his variations has made him a primary wicket-taking option for the captain, while on the other hand, Ravi Bishnoi, who has played 43 matches in total, had 55 wickets to his name after his first 35 innings. Bishnoi’s average during that period stood at 17, while 98, showing that while he's effective, Varun has been slightly more lethal in terms of strike rate.

Impact Spells and Five-Wicket Hauls

The ability to run through an opposition batting lineup is what separates good bowlers from great ones. Varun Chakaravarthy excels in this department. In his 35-match career so far, he has already claimed two five-wicket hauls and one four-wicket haul. His career-best figures of 5/17 came against a formidable South African side, while in contrast, after 35 T20I matches, Ravi Bishnoi had yet to record a five-wicket haul. He managed two four-wicket hauls during that span, with his best performance being 4/13 against Zimbabwe. Varun’s record against top-tier nations gives him a significant advantage in this comparison.

Economy Rate and Pressure Building

In the shortest format of the game, maintaining a low economy rate is crucial, while varun Chakaravarthy has maintained an economy of 7. 09 after 35 matches, which is exceptional for a spinner who bowls in the powerplay and the middle overs. He has also bowled one maiden over. Ravi Bishnoi, known for his quick leg-breaks and googlies, had an economy rate of 7. 23 after his first 35 matches. Interestingly, Bishnoi proved to be better at bowling dot balls and building pressure, recording 3 maiden overs compared to Varun’s one, while this highlights Bishnoi's role as a restrictive force who forces batsmen into making mistakes.

The Selection Dilemma for Team India

The comparison reveals that while Varun Chakaravarthy is a more prolific wicket-taker with a better average, Ravi Bishnoi offers consistency and exceptional fielding skills. Varun’s 'mystery' factor remains a huge asset, especially on pitches that offer even a hint of turn, while however, Bishnoi’s younger age and athletic presence on the field make him a long-term prospect. As India prepares for future global tournaments, having both spinners in top form is a luxury. The competition between these two will only elevate the standard of Indian spin bowling, making it difficult for opposition batters to breathe easy.