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

Varun Chakaravarthy Outplays Tim David in Mind Game

Varun Chakaravarthy emerged victorious in his psychological duel with Australian batter Tim David during the second T20I in Melbourne. The incident occurred as Australia chased a modest 126-run target on Friday night.

The Turning Point

Tim David came to the crease after captain Mitchell Marsh fell to Kuldeep Yadav in the eighth over. Australia appeared comfortable, needing just 39 runs from 12 overs, but India’s spinners tightened the noose.

The Mind Games

Having already dismissed Travis Head, Chakaravarthy set an aggressive field. Tilak Varma was brought in close at forward short-leg, which made David laugh, recognizing India’s attempt at applying pressure.

“It was clear that Suryakumar Yadav was using pressure tactics,” a commentator noted as the players exchanged subtle mind games.

David tried to respond with his own trickery. As Chakaravarthy began his run-up, David stepped away from the crease, leading the spinner to retaliate by stopping mid-delivery. The brief standoff invited laughter from Suryakumar Yadav and the commentary box.

The Decisive Moment

David eventually scored a single with a push to mid-off, but Chakaravarthy soon ended the battle. The Indian spinner tempted David into lofting a simple return catch, sealing the contest between the two.

Author’s Summary

Varun Chakaravarthy’s composure and tactical patience turned a tense mind game into a crucial breakthrough, showcasing his psychological edge in a pressure moment.

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Hindustan Times Hindustan Times — 2025-10-31

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