The chatter around India’s bowling unit has taken a new turn after the recent T20I series against Australia. The series featured familiar faces, but something about the balance felt different. The focus shifted from pace to spin, and that shift sparked debate.

Former cricketer Subramaniam Badrinath voiced his thoughts on Star Sports, and his words carried weight because he spoke with clarity and certainty. He highlighted Varun Chakravarthy’s growing presence and suggested that the spinner has reached a point where his influence can match or even exceed the contribution of Jasprit Bumrah in this format.

The figures during the Australia series were the deciding factor in the conversation. Chakravarthy took five wickets across the five matches. He kept his average at 16.40 and held his economy at 6.83. Bumrah, meanwhile, finished with three wickets at an average of 26.33.

Those numbers gave Badrinath space to claim that Chakravarthy controls the run flow at several stages of an innings, whether early, in the middle, or at the end. He added that the spinner’s second stint with the Indian side looks stronger, sharper, and calmer. Badrinath noted that Chakravarthy’s confidence has grown since his return in late 2024, and this return marks a fresh peak.

Here is what he said: 

"Numbers tell us that Varun Chakaravarthy is the No. 1 T20 bowler in the world. He is more valuable than even Bumrah. Whenever the runs are flowing in the powerplay or the middle overs or even in the 18th over, Varun is the go-to bowler. He has gone to a different level with his game. A superb comeback after being given a chance initially and getting dropped because of fitness. But in this second phase after his comeback, he has taken his game to the next level."

"He's a huge asset for India, in fact, even a weapon. Going forward, with the T20 World Cup in India, he will be the most crucial factor. If Varun has a good day, there is a great chance the Indian team will have a good day."

Opinion on Badrinath’s claims

Badrinath’s assessment carries conviction, but it invites scrutiny. Chakravarthy has indeed shown skill and composure, and his record across the past year supports that view. He has taken wickets at consistent intervals and held matches together during tense phases.

The mystery spinner's ability to slow scoring can shift momentum. However, comparing him directly with Bumrah may stretch the argument. Bumrah influences matches differently. His presence in high-pressure overs brings calm and belief to the fielding side. Chakravarthy maintains the run flow in the middle overs, while Bumrah often changes the direction of a match with a single over.

So the point may not be whether Chakravarthy stands above Bumrah. The point may be that India finally have two bowlers who can grip a match in contrasting ways. If both operate in sync during the T20 World Cup 2026, India will gain more control, and the team’s prospects will strengthen.