India’s Rising Star Tilak Varma Impresses Experts and Fans, Potential Selection for ICC World Cup 2023
Indian cricket sensation Tilak Varma has captured the attention of experts and fans alike with his exceptional performance in the first three T20Is. Despite the Indian batters struggling in the opening match, the debutant made a remarkable contribution, scoring 39 runs off just 22 balls. In the second game, he continued to impress, achieving his maiden T20I half-century. Varma concluded the series with another outstanding knock, remaining unbeaten on 49 runs off 37 deliveries. However, he narrowly missed out on his second consecutive fifty due to a lack of strike from Hardik Pandya.
Former chief selector MSK Prasad is thrilled with Varma’s talent and believes he should be included in the Indian squad for the 2023 ICC Men’s ODI World Cup. The young cricketer has received praise from Indian team captain Rohit Sharma for his exceptional performances against the West Indies. Varma’s maturity and composure while batting during his debut series have astounded everyone, prompting calls for his selection by former cricketers and fans.
Prasad believes that India should continue with Shreyas Iyer in the No. 4 position. However, if Iyer is unavailable during the World Cup selection, Varma could be the ideal replacement. Prasad stated, First of all, we should know whether Shreyas Iyer is fit or not. So, in case, if Shreyas Iyer is ruled out, in the present scenario, one guy who fits the bill is Tilak Varma, because of his versatility, ability to play against fast and spin bowling, and his knack for shifting gears when needed. Moreover, we currently lack a left-hander at the top of the order, which strengthens Tilak Varma’s case.
If India had a settled playing XI at the moment, there would be no discussion about a young player who recently made an impressive debut being considered for the World Cup squad. However, with India facing numerous issues, particularly in the middle order due to the fitness concerns of KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer, Tilak Varma has undoubtedly showcased immense potential in his vital middle-order role, even in the T20 format. Varma’s selection will depend on Iyer’s availability for the Asia Cup. It is worth noting that an ideal replacement for KL Rahul would be a wicketkeeper and middle-order batsman, who can confidently take on the No. 5 position.
Therefore, if Shreyas Iyer fails to recover in time for the Asia Cup, Tilak Varma could be given an opportunity during the tournament. With the support of Virat Kohli at No. 3 and a fit KL Rahul and Hardik Pandya batting below him, Varma will have the necessary buffer to truly make his mark. Should Varma continue to display the same form, temperament, and maturity during the Asia Cup, there is a possibility that he might secure a place in the World Cup squad as well.
