India’s mystery spinner Varun Chakraborty went through an ongoing difficult phase ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026his performances are closely scrutinized by fans and experts alike. After being one of the most talked about bowlers going into the tournament, the spinner has struggled to maintain his control and deception in recent matches. After the high-pressure semi-final match against India Englandveteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin Varun shared his thoughts on what he needs to do to regain his confidence and rediscover his bowling rhythm.
Varun Chakaravarthy’s form is a cause for concern
Varun entered the global event as the world’s No. 1 T20 bowler carrying huge expectations. However, his performances declined in the second half of the competition. His struggle was most evident in the semi-final against England, where he endured a tough trip.
The spinner conceded 64 runs in his four-over spell with the England batsman Jacob Bethell he tore it apart in a vicious attack. Bethell destroyed 42 runs off Varun off just 13 deliveries and exposed some tactical flaws in the spinner’s approach.
Analysts believe that one of the main issues was Varu’s pace of delivery. By bowling quicker in the air, he has inadvertently reduced the effectiveness of his variations, allowing the batters to pick his delivery quicker.
Including opposition teams South Africa, New Zealand and England, used an open tactic against him. Batsmen plant their front foot early and hit it flat – a technique widely described as a ‘step kick’. This aggressive approach allowed teams to dominate him, especially in the Super 8 stage of the tournament.
Increased pressure and loss of rhythm
Another factor that determines Varu’s struggle is the psychological pressure of expectations. Being tagged as the leading spinner of the tournament put him in the spotlight right from the start.
Once he started leaking runs, the pressure affected his bowling rhythm. Instead of sticking to his usual stump-to-stump line, Varun started experimenting with wider deliveries or balls that slide towards the pads. This deviation from his strengths greatly affected his effectiveness.
Since the Super 8 stage, his save rate has risen sharply to 11.62 – an alarming figure for a bowler known for his control in the shortest format.
Ravichandran Ashwin’s top tip for a struggling spinner
Former India off-spinner Ashwin believes Varu’s condition is not unusual and can be fixed with awareness and tactical adjustments. According to Ashwin, learning to adapt during difficult phases is one of the most important lessons for any spinner.
Ashwin explained that bowlers need to understand when to slow down the game and rethink their approach instead of rushing.
“I used to deliver quickly quickly quickly quickly. But if I felt I needed a break, I would take it. It’s about awareness. The hardest part is adapting and responding to difficult situations. Not every day will be good, and there will be bad days,” Ashwin said.
He added that Varun is currently facing a new challenge in his career and the conversations around him – from teammates, coaches and support staff – will be crucial in helping him recover. Ashwin also emphasized that Varun now needs to evolve beyond just relying on his mystery factor.
“Until now he has relied on people not picking him. Now he has to rely on the finer points of spin bowling. It’s a challenge and a journey.” he added.
Will India replace Varun in the final?
As India prepares for the finals of the T20 World Cup 2026, a debate has emerged as to whether or not Kuldeep Yadav He can replace Varun in the playing XI. However, Ashwin believes that despite the discussions, such a change is unlikely.
“Can Kuldeep come for Varun? I think they will think about it, but it won’t happen. They can think about it a lot. But I hope it won’t happen and I don’t think so.” Ashwin concluded.
As India prepare for the biggest match of the tournament, all eyes will be on whether Varu can bounce back and perform at the most important moment.
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