Varun Chakaravarthy wins mind game against Australia's Tim David, dismisses him cheaply

Varun Chakaravarthy Outsmarts Tim David in Melbourne T20I

Varun Chakaravarthy had the final say in his subtle battle of wits with Australia's Tim David during the second T20I between India and Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

The Turning Point

Australia, chasing 126 runs, appeared comfortable at 87 for 2 when captain Mitchell Marsh was dismissed by Kuldeep Yadav in the eighth over. With only 39 runs needed in 12 overs, the game seemed firmly in Australia's favor before India's spinners complicated matters.

Mind Games on the Field

Chakaravarthy, who had already taken Travis Head's wicket, began his next over with an aggressive setup. Tilak Varma stood at forward short-leg, catching Tim David’s attention and amusement. The move was clearly part of a pressure tactic devised by India’s captain, Suryakumar Yadav.

In response, David decided to play his own psychological game. As Chakaravarthy began his run-up for the next delivery, he stepped away, halting the bowler mid-action. The spinner did not appreciate the delay and retaliated by refusing to bowl his next ball. Even so, Suryakumar and the commentators seemed to enjoy the lighter moment.

The Decisive Dismissal

David eventually got off the mark with a push to mid-off. But Chakaravarthy soon had the last laugh, forcing David to mistime a shot straight back to him. The bowler completed an easy catch, ending the Australian's innings cheaply and securing a crucial breakthrough for India.

Varun Chakaravarthy had the last laugh when Tim David chipped the ball straight back to him, and he made no mistake taking the simple catch.

Author’s Summary

Chakaravarthy combined tactical bowling and calm composure to outplay Tim David in a fascinating display of cricket mind games at the MCG.

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Hindustan Times Hindustan Times — 2025-10-31

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