Batsmen are now onto Varun’s game, launching ferocious assaults that erode his self-belief with every boundary. Ashwin dissected recent outings where Varun’s predictability cost dearly. The England semi-final was a nightmare: 64 runs from four overs for one scalp, etching his name in infamous records.

Against West Indies in Super 8s, it was more of the same – 40 runs and one wicket. This dismal run of 104 runs for two wickets in two matches has selectors and fans on edge. Kuldeep Yadav’s exclusion despite his prowess makes Varun’s selection contentious.

Ashwin advocated for tactical tweaks: consistent line-length discipline, pace variations, and smarter angles. ‘When big shots fly off his bowling, Varun’s confidence crashes,’ he noted. Captain Suryakumar Yadav must weigh loyalty against form. Will Varun bounce back in the final, or will India pivot to Kuldeep? The answer could define their World Cup fate.

This episode underscores T20’s brutal evolution, where spinners must innovate relentlessly. Ashwin’s mentorship plea signals urgency as India eyes the trophy.