Varun Chakaravarthy's Mind Games with Tim David at MCG
During the second T20I between India and Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, Indian spinner Varun Chakaravarthy and Australian batsman Tim David engaged in a tense moment of mind games. This exchange happened while Australia was chasing a modest total of 126 runs, which they achieved in 13.2 overs to win by four wickets.
Irrespective of the outcome, Indian fans assembled at the venue did have few moments to cheer, such as the one involving Chakaravarthy and David. — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) October 31, 2025
The sequence began after Mitchell Marsh was dismissed by Kuldeep Yadav on the last ball of the eighth over. Josh Inglis took a single off Chakaravarthy’s first ball in the next over, bringing Tim David to the crease.
- Chakaravarthy instructed teammate Tilak Varma to move closer to the batsman wearing a helmet.
- Tim David remained calm, smiling and talking with Tilak.
- As Chakaravarthy ran up to bowl, David, batting without a helmet, stepped back.
- Chakaravarthy then sprinted in but did not release the ball, increasing the psychological pressure.
The silent but intense encounter made even captain Suryakumar Yadav and Tilak Varma smile.
Match Context
Despite Australia’s eventual victory, moments like this showcased the competitive spirit and clever tactics used on the field.
Author's Summary
This tense exchange between Chakaravarthy and David highlights the psychological battles that add intrigue to cricket beyond just the final scores.