Former Indian batter Shikhar Dhawan believes India’s success was ensured with the decision to include an extra spinner in the middle of the ICC Champions Trophy.

India marched to the final without suffering any defeat. In the final, they are taking on New Zealand who they beat in the group-stage game. 

Dhawan pointed to their group-stage clash against New Zealand as a key moment when the team’s strategy clicked into place.

That was the game where leg-spinner Varun Chakaravarthy, playing just his second ODI, delivered a stunning five-wicket haul (5 for 42), cementing his place in the squad.

“India have played great cricket throughout … but a key moment came in a change of personnel midway through the competition,” Dhawan told the ICC.

The spinner’s impact has convinced Dhawan that India will lift the trophy on Sunday, especially given the spin-friendly conditions in Dubai.

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“I believe India’s spinners will be too strong for New Zealand’s batters, who will find it hard to get hold of Varun Chakaravarthy – he will play a major role,” he said. “Our batting unit is doing very well, the whole team is playing good cricket, and I think – and hope – that will continue.”

Beyond Chakaravarthy, Dhawan also praised the contributions of Virat Kohli and Mohammed Shami. Kohli has been India’s batting anchor, while Shami has played a crucial role despite Dubai’s spin-friendly surfaces.

Shami’s performance has been especially crucial in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah, who is recovering from injury.

“To win the Champions Trophy, you have to have the whole team performing well,” Dhawan said. “One player can win you a game but not a trophy. India have done that throughout.”