Tilak Varma To Miss New Zealand T20I Series

Indian cricketer Tilak Varma of the Indian team will be out of the ongoing series of T20Is against New Zealand due to his continued recovery from the testicular surgery. Varma, aged 23, is on the recovery path but has been given more time by the BCCI to be more match fit ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup series.

Even though the exclusion of Tilak Varma from the first three matches of the T20Is was clear, it can now be said that the player will be out of the entire series.

Tilak Varma Expected to Join India Squad in Mumbai

As per BCCI, Tilak Varma is anticipated to join the Indian team for the T20 World Cup in Mumbai on 3 February. His return to international games is likely with a warm-up clash against South Africa in Navi Mumbai on 4 February.

According to a release issued by BCCI: “Tilak has resumed his physical training and is making steady progress with his rehabilitation at the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. However, he still has to be given more time to reach top fitness condition as a cricketer.”

No T20 Cricket for Tilak Varma in 2024 Before World Cup

As it stands, Tilak Varma will begin T20 World Cup 2024 with not a single T20 match in 2024 on his resume. But still, management trusts their ability to perform because of their recent success at international games.

Tilak had emerged as an key figure in India’s middle order, having starred in the Asia Cup final, topping the scoring chart in the T20I contest against South Africa in December.

Ishan Kishan Seizes Opportunity in Tilak Varma’s Absence

With the absence of Tilak Varma, an opening chance was given to Ishan Kishan, who is currently part of India’s World Cup squad. This young talent made an impactful appearance, especially when he scored a rip-roaring 76 off just 32 balls when India slumped at 6/2 versus New Zealand. India skipper Suryakumar Yadav praised Kishan’s positive approach, stating the depth that India’s batting unit offers.

Mixed Form Among India’s Top-Order Options

While Abhishek Sharma’s form has been sensational, contributing the second-quickest fifty in India’s T20I history, Samson’s form, however, has not been as convincing, with just 16 runs in his last three knocks. These performances also add an edge to team selections, where Tilak Varma seeks a comeback.

Washington Sundar Injury Update Awaited

No new news is available regarding Washington Sundar, who got injured due to a rib problem in the first ODI against New Zealand on January 11. Washington Sundar is one of the four spinner options chosen for the Indian team in the T20 World Cup tournament.

Squads are allowed to make any kind of change until January 30; after this, any further change is conditional approval from the ICC event technical committee.

India A Matches to Provide Game Time Ahead of World Cup

In order to provide match practice to the players, India A will play the USA on February 2 in Navi Mumbai and Namibia on February 6 in Bengaluru. All-rounder and sidelined due to a right shoulder complaint, however, fit and available to play in these matches.