N Thakur Tilak Varma, a young cricketer from Hyderabad, made a dazzling T20 debut for the Indian cricket team against West Indies, leaving an indelible mark with his batting and fielding skills. This significant moment showcased Varma as the first player from Hyderabad to represent India since VVS Laxman’s retirement in 2012.
At just 20 years old, Varma proudly donned the Indian jersey, marking a milestone in his cricketing journey. The honor of presenting him with the cap for his debut was bestowed upon Captain Hardik Pandya, adding an extra touch of significance.
Varma’s passion for sports ignited at a young age, leading him to join the acclaimed Legala Cricket Academy in Lingampally. Under the guidance of his mentor, Salam Bayash, Varma honed his skills and showcased his talent. His educational journey began at Crescent Model English School in Hyderabad, followed by secondary studies at Sri Lepakshi Junior College. Currently, Varma is pursuing a Bachelor of Business Administration degree at Andhra University.
In February 2022, Varma’s exceptional talent caught the attention of the Mumbai Indians during the Indian Premier League (IPL) auction, securing him for a notable sum of Rs. 1.7 crore. His impactful performances in the league, including a brilliant 61-run knock off just 33 balls, further established his prowess with the bat.
Fast forward to April 2023, Varma continued to shine in the IPL. In the opening match of the 2023 season, he scored an impressive 84 off 46 balls against the Royal Challengers Bangalore, showcasing his ability to dominate the game. During a crucial playoff match against the Gujarat Titans, Varma contributed significantly with a quickfire 43 off just 14 balls.
All these remarkable achievements did not go unnoticed by the national selectors. Varma received his maiden call-up to the Indian cricket team for the T20I series during their tour of West Indies in July 2023. On August 3, 2023, he made his T20I debut in the first match of the series, leaving a lasting impact. Not only did he top-score for India with 39 runs off 22 deliveries, but he also displayed exceptional fielding skills, taking two catches.
Varma’s journey continues to soar as he finds himself included in the Indian squads for the upcoming three-match T20I tour of Ireland and the 2022 Asian Games in Hangzhou, China. This young cricketer’s star continues to rise, marking a promising chapter in Indian cricket.
With his impressive performances and unwavering dedication, N Thakur Tilak Varma has undoubtedly made a name for himself in the cricketing world. As he continues to carve his path, it is evident that he possesses the talent and potential to become a prominent figure in Indian cricket and create a lasting legacy of his own.
