Varun Chakaravarthy’s comeback has been interrupted again. A side strain has ruled the spinner out of India’s remaining T20Is against Afghanistan and left his Asian Games participation in serious doubt.
What happened
The 35-year-old reported a side strain after the first T20I in Delhi. He has been told to return to the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence for further tests, with the Indian squad due to leave for the Asian Games in Japan on September 18.
Why the timing is especially frustrating
Varun had only recently returned after spending roughly two months out with a hamstring problem. He had completed rehabilitation at the Centre of Excellence and cleared a fitness test before the Afghanistan series.
The injury raises another CoE question
The latest setback has put the rehabilitation and clearance process under renewed scrutiny. The Indian Express noted that other players have also suffered fresh injuries during or soon after rehab, adding to questions about how workloads and return-to-play decisions are being managed.
He had actually looked sharp
Against Afghanistan in Delhi, Varun conceded just 16 runs in four overs and took a wicket. That made the fresh injury even more untimely because his performance suggested he was starting to rediscover rhythm after a difficult spell.
What this means for the Asian Games
India begin their campaign on September 28. With further medical tests still required, Varun’s recovery window is tight. If he is unavailable, India could consider recalling Kuldeep Yadav, who is currently playing county cricket for Yorkshire.
Bottom line
This is more than a routine injury update. Varun’s setback affects India’s spin options and again raises the difficult question of how quickly elite players should return after rehabilitation.
Source: The Indian Express
