Punjab Newsline,Sports:
Needs More Time to Regain Full Match Fitness; Shreyas Iyer to Play Last Two Matches Against New Zealand
Ahead of the T20 World Cup, an important update has emerged for the Indian cricket team. Young top-order batter Tilak Varma’s return to Team India has been delayed for now. Recovering from injury, Tilak is now likely to make his comeback in the warm-up matches scheduled before the T20 World Cup, instead of featuring in the main competitive fixtures. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has clarified that he still needs some time to achieve full match fitness.
According to the BCCI, Tilak Varma has resumed physical training and is currently undergoing rehabilitation at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. His recovery is progressing steadily under the supervision of the medical team, but the board and team management do not want to take any risks at this stage. As a result, he has been kept away from competitive matches until he is completely fit.
In Tilak’s absence, Shreyas Iyer, who was included in the Indian squad for the initial matches, has been given an extended opportunity. Shreyas will now remain part of the squad for the remaining two T20 matches against New Zealand as well. These matches will be crucial for him to showcase his form and strengthen his claim in the team combination ahead of the World Cup.
Tilak Varma has been an important part of India’s T20 setup in recent times. The left-handed batter has impressed with his composure and aggressive stroke play in the middle order, often providing stability as well as momentum to the innings. Naturally, his fitness is being closely monitored ahead of a major tournament like the T20 World Cup.
Team India’s strategy is clear—prioritise player fitness and use the warm-up matches to finalise the best possible playing combination. If Tilak Varma manages to regain full fitness on time, he is expected to return during the warm-up games. Fans will be hoping that he can then play a key role for India in the T20 World Cup.