Thu Jan 30 14:42:46 IST 2025: ## Chakravarthy’s Five-Wicket Haul Keeps India Ahead in T20 Series
**Rajkot, India –** Indian spinner Varun Chakravarthy stole the show in the third T20I against England, capturing a stunning five-wicket haul (5/24) to help restrict England to 171/9. Despite this impressive bowling performance, England ultimately won the match by 26 runs, thanks to a faltering Indian batting performance (145/9).
Chakravarthy’s performance shattered Kuldeep Yadav’s record for most wickets by an Indian spinner in a 10-match T20I stretch. In his last 10 matches, Chakravarthy has taken an impressive 27 wickets, averaging 10.96 runs per wicket with an economy rate of 7.40. This achievement places him third globally, behind only Syazrul Idrus (Malaysia) and Rashid Khan (Afghanistan).
While Mohammed Shami made a successful return to international cricket after a 14-month absence, it was Chakravarthy’s match-winning spell that dominated the headlines. His wickets included England captain Jos Buttler, significantly hindering England’s progress.
Despite the loss, India maintains a 2-1 lead in the five-match series. The fourth T20I is scheduled for Pune on January 31st.