Varun Chakaravarthy Wins Mind Game Against Tim David
In the second T20I between India and Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, Varun Chakaravarthy triumphed in an intriguing psychological battle with Tim David, dismissing him for a low score.
During Australia's chase of 126 runs, Tim David came to the crease after captain Mitchell Marsh was removed by Kuldeep Yadav in the eighth over. At that point, Australia seemed comfortable, requiring only 39 runs from 12 overs, but India’s spin attack tightened the contest.
Chakaravarthy, who had already taken Travis Head’s wicket, began his next over with an attacking field setup. Tilak Varma was positioned at forward short leg, prompting laughter from David upon noticing how close the fielder was. The Australian batter recognized it as a pressure tactic from India’s captain, Suryakumar Yadav.
David responded with his own bit of strategy. As Chakaravarthy began his run-up, he stepped away from the crease, momentarily halting the bowler. Chakaravarthy retaliated by refusing to deliver the next ball, drawing smiles from Suryakumar and the commentators.
David managed to score his first run with a push to mid-off, but Chakaravarthy ultimately prevailed. The spinner induced a mistimed shot from David, who chipped the ball straight back to him. Chakaravarthy completed an easy catch, sealing his psychological victory.
Chakaravarthy had the last laugh when he dismissed David, ending their on-field mind game.
Author’s Summary
Varun Chakaravarthy outsmarted Tim David in a tense MCG clash, using psychological tactics and sharp spin to dismiss him and swing the match India’s way.