A three-match ODI series is being played between India and England, in which the Indian team has won the series by winning the first two matches (6 and 9 February). The third and last ODI will be played on 12 February at Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad.

The Indian team's squad for the ODI series and the Champions Trophy was announced even before the T20 series started. However, for some time now, Varun Chakraborty was performing brilliantly in T20 for the Indian team, as well as his performance in domestic cricket was also tremendous. Apart from this, Kuldeep Yadav returned after hernia surgery, due to which there were doubts about his fitness. Due to these reasons, it was expected that Varun Chakraborty could get a place in the Champions Trophy squad.

Why was Varun Chakraborty included in the ODI squad?

On February 4, the Indian team made changes in the ODI squad and included Varun Chakraborty, which led to speculation that he could also get a place for the Champions Trophy.

However, in the first announced team for the Champions Trophy, four spinners - Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar and Kuldeep Yadav - were selected. Varun was left out, but now his sudden inclusion in the ODI team raises the question whether the selectors are considering bringing him into the Champions Trophy squad?

Who can be out?

If Varun Chakraborty is brought into the Champions Trophy team, then the biggest threat is looming over Washington Sundar.

Ravindra Jadeja took 3-3 wickets in the first two ODIs and also contributed well with the bat.

Axar Patel batted brilliantly in the middle order and played the role of a floater to break the monotony of right-handed batsmen. He scored 52 runs (off 47 balls) in the first ODI and 41 runs (not out off 43 balls) in the second.

Kuldeep Yadav is India's main spinner and is ranked second in the ICC ODI rankings. In the first ODI, he took 1 wicket for 53 runs in 9.4 overs, however, he was rested in the second ODI and Varun Chakraborty got a chance in his place.

How was Varun Chakraborty's performance in ODIs?

Even after getting a chance in the second ODI, Varun Chakraborty could not perform effectively. He took only 1 wicket for 54 runs in 10 overs, although the England batsmen played him cautiously.

At the same time, Washington Sundar has not got a chance to play any ODI match so far, due to which questions have been raised about his remaining in the squad.

When asked about the possible entry of Varun Chakraborty in the press conference, the team management refused to give a clear answer. However, if such a decision has to be taken, the teams can make changes till February 11, after which permission will have to be taken from the ICC.

Why can there be a change?

India's bowling department needs strengthening.

Jasprit Bumrah's fitness is still in doubt.

Mohammed Shami is also making a comeback from injury and is trying to regain his form.

If Bumrah and Shami are not fully fit, India will need additional options in the bowling department, and in such a situation, the inclusion of Varun Chakravarthy can prove to be beneficial for the Indian team.

What will be the final decision?

Now it will be interesting to see whether the Indian selection committee decides to include Varun Chakravarthy in the Champions Trophy squad or not. If this happens, will Washington Sundar be dropped?

The Indian team can make changes in its squad till February 11, after which ICC's permission will be necessary. In such a situation, this decision will depend on the team's strategy and the fitness of the players.