Varun Chakaravarthy is an Indian international cricketer renowned for his success as a leg spin bowler. Varun Chakaravarthy has created history by becoming the No.1 ranked T20I bowler in the latest ICC Men’s Player Rankings for the first time in his career, following consistent performances in 2025 and standout spells during the ongoing Asia Cup. He is now the third Indian ever to top the T20I bowling charts, after Jasprit Bumrah and Ravi Bishnoi.
Highlights of Varun Chakaravarthy’s Rise
- Chakaravarthy ascended to the No.1 position after significant contributions with the ball in India’s recent matches, including figures of 1/4 against the UAE and 1/24 against Pakistan at the Asia Cup.
- The 34-year-old spinner overtook New Zealand’s Jacob Duffy, who had held the top spot since March 2025.
- This achievement marks a major career highlight for Chakaravarthy, who had previously peaked at No.2 in February 2025.
Historical Context and Rankings Impact
- Chakaravarthy’s consistency and economical spells have made him a key member of India’s T20I squad throughout the past year.
- India now boasts three bowlers who have attained the No.1 ICC T20I bowling ranking in history: Jasprit Bumrah, Ravi Bishnoi, and Varun Chakaravarthy.
- Other notable rankings moves include New Zealand’s Jacob Duffy dropping to second, West Indies’ Akeal Hosein at third, and Australia’s Adam Zampa moving to fourth.
Career Stats
| Format | Matches | Wickets | Avg | Economy | SR | BBF | 5W |
| ODI | 4 | 10 | 19.00 | 4.75 | 24.0 | 5/42 | 1 |
| T20I | 20 | 35 | 14.54 | 6.83 | 12.77 | 5/17 | 2 |
| IPL | 84 | 100 | 23.85 | 7.57 | 18.88 | 5/20 | 1 |
Varun Chakaravarthy’s rise to the top of the ICC T20I bowling rankings is a testament to his perseverance and impact as a specialist spinner in limited-overs cricket, offering a major boost for Team India in the ongoing season.

