In the second T20I between India and Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, Varun Chakaravarthy came out on top in his mental duel with Australia's Tim David. The match saw moments of light tension and humor as both cricketers tried to outthink each other.
During Australia’s chase of 126 runs, Tim David came to the crease after captain Mitchell Marsh was dismissed by Kuldeep Yadav in the 8th over. With only 39 runs needed from 12 overs, the visitors were in a comfortable position until the Indian spinners tightened the screws.
Chakaravarthy, who had earlier dismissed Travis Head, began his next over with an aggressive field setup. He called Tilak Varma to stand at forward short-leg, a move clearly intended to apply pressure. David laughed when he saw the close-in fielder, recognizing the psychological play from India’s captain Suryakumar Yadav.
As Chakaravarthy began his run-up for the next delivery, David stepped away from the crease. The bowler responded by stopping his motion and refusing to bowl. The exchange drew smiles from Suryakumar and laughter from the commentators.
David managed to score off his next delivery with a push to mid-off. However, the last laugh belonged to Chakaravarthy, who dismissed David soon after when the batter chipped one straight back for a simple catch.
“Varun Chakaravarthy had the last laugh in the mind games with Australia batter Tim David in the second T20I in Melbourne.”
Varun Chakaravarthy showcased composure and tactical brilliance under pressure, outwitting Tim David with both strategy and patience at the MCG.