Kolkata Knight Riders spinner Varun Chakaravarthy capped off a brilliant series against South Africa by being named Player of the Series, following a match-winning spell in the fifth T20I in Ahmedabad. Chakaravarthy claimed 4/53 in the final match, playing a crucial role in enforcing a middle-over slowdown that helped India secure a 30-run victory and clinch the series 3-1.
His mystery spin proved highly effective throughout the five-match series, where he finished as the leading wicket-taker with 10 scalps. Experts noted that Chakaravarthy holds a clear edge over many batters, particularly against the South African middle order, due to his ability to fox them with variations. His consistent performance and ability to take wickets at regular intervals make him a bankable option for India's bowling attack heading into the T20 World Cup.

“Varun Chakravarthy, on the other hand, has been proving himself time and again with his skilled mystery spin bowling. He was the Player of the Series in the five T20Is against South Africa, and will hope to carry that form in 2026 as well.”
Best pressure bowlers among bowling specialists in IPL 2025 (calculated as [Wickets ÷ Overs] × [10 - Economy Rate], minimum 10 overs, bowlers/all-rounders only)
| Rank | Player | Team | pressure-bowlers |
|---|---|---|---|
#1 | Mumbai Indians | 1.27 index | |
#2 | Sunrisers Hyderabad | 1.25 index | |
#3 | Chennai Super Kings | 0.88 index | |
| #4 | Delhi Capitals | 0.86 index | |
| #5 | Kolkata Knight Riders | 0.80 index |
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Doctors later confirmed that the 19-year-old had suffered a concussion, but all reports were clear. According to a mykhel.com report, Raghuvanshi was discharged from the hospital and is now doing well.
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“Varun Chakravarthy, on the other hand, has been proving himself time and again with his skilled mystery spin bowling. He was the Player of the Series in the five T20Is against South Africa, and will hope to carry that form in 2026 as well.”