Varun Chakravarthy Tamil Nadu Captain Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025

India’s No.1-ranked T20I bowler Varun Chakravarthy has been appointed as the captain of Tamil Nadu for the 2025–26 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, marking the spinner’s first-ever leadership role at any level. Wicketkeeper-batter Narayan Jagadeesan has been named the vice-captain. So let’ have a look at Varun Chakravarthy Tamil Nadu Captain.

A New Era of Leadership for Tamil Nadu

Chakravarthy replaces M Shahrukh Khan, with selectors opting for the in-form mystery spinner despite other experienced leaders like R Sai Kishore and Jagadeesan being available.

His selection comes on the back of an impressive outing in India’s recent T20I series in Australia, where he took five wickets in three matches, playing a crucial role in India’s series victory.

Tamil Nadu Squad Overview

Tamil Nadu have endured a modest Ranji Trophy season so far, currently placed sixth in their group with two losses and two draws. However, the T20 squad looks far more balanced and competitive.

The squad includes several seasoned campaigners and promising performers from the Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL), including:

  • T Natarajan – India’s experienced left-arm seamer

  • Gurjapneet Singh – Young left-arm pacer

  • Sai Kishore & M Siddharth – Key left-arm spin duo

  • Pradosh Ranjan Paul & Shivam Singh – Reliable middle-order options

A major highlight is the inclusion of Tushar Raheja, one of TNPL 2025’s top performers.

Tushar Raheja: TNPL Star Joins the Mix

Explosive opener Tushar Raheja enters the squad after a sensational TNPL season:

  • 488 runs in 9 innings
  • Average: 61.00
  • Player of the Match in the TNPL 2025 final (77 off 46)

His form makes him one of TN’s most vital batting assets for the tournament.

Tamil Nadu’s Full Squad for SMAT 2025

Varun Chakravarthy (captain)
Narayan Jagadeesan (vice-captain, wicketkeeper)
Tushar Raheja (wk)
VP Amit Sathvik
M Shahrukh Khan
Andre Siddharth
Pradosh Ranjan Paul
Shivam Singh
R Sai Kishore
M Siddharth
T Natarajan
Gurjapneet Singh
A Esakkimuthu
R Sonu Yadav
R Silambarasan
S Rithik Easwaran (wk)

Group and Schedule

Tamil Nadu are placed in Elite Group D alongside:

  • Rajasthan
  • Delhi
  • Uttarakhand
  • Karnataka
  • Tripura
  • Jharkhand
  • Saurashtra

TN will begin their campaign against Rajasthan in Ahmedabad on November 26.

Chakravarthy Likely to Be Retained by KKR for IPL 2026

Varun Chakravarthy is also expected to be retained by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for the IPL 2026 season, following his excellent 2025 performance:

  • 17 wickets in 13 matches
  • Economy: 7.66
  • Key contributor in KKR’s strong campaign

With the IPL retention deadline set for November 15, Chakravarthy’s future with KKR looks secure.

Also read: Jonny Bairstow Yorkshire Captain IPL Return

Conclusion

Tamil Nadu’s decision to hand leadership to Varun Chakravarthy signals a refreshing shift focused on current form and impact. With a mix of experience, youth, and in-form domestic performers, TN will aim for a strong run in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025 and reclaim their status as one of India’s top T20 sides.

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