Tilak Varma has been a revelation in the ongoing IND vs WI T20 series. He has shown his ability to adapt to different situations and conditions. He has also impressed with his temperament, technique and shot selection, earning praise from fans and experts alike. However, despite his success in the shortest format, Varma might have to wait for his chances in the 50-over game despite calls from former cricketers to fast-track him to Asia Cup 2023 and World Cup 2023 squads.
While India Cricket Team has been experimenting with the shortest format of the game, India have a settled top order and a plethora of options in the middle order in ODIs. With the ODI World Cup less than two months away, it is unlikely that the team management will experiment with a new face, especially when some of the regulars are recovering from injuries.
Tilak Varma is also set to miss at least the first two games of World Cup 2023 even if he is picked. He is in the Indian contingent for the Asian Games 2023, which will be held in China from September 23 to October 8. The Asian Games will clash with the World Cup 2023.
Where will Tilak Varma fit in ODI setup?
- Shubman Gill and Ishan Kishan are already in a tough fight for the opening spot.
- Virat Kohli at number 3 is untouchable.
- Despite poor numbers, Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid are set to give Suryakumar Yadav more chances considering his reputation.
- Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul will fit right into Playing XI when they are match-fit.
- It makes Tilak Varma’s place non-existent.
- There is a faint possibility at No 6 but SKY and Sanju Samson are fighting for the finisher’s role.
- Ravindra Jadeja is another untouchable in the Playing XI at No 7.
Tilak Varma gets backing from Ashwin
However, some India’s veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has backed Varma’s inclusion in the ODI setup, citing his potential and versatility. Ashwin has urged the selectors and the team management to show faith in Varma and include him in the World Cup squad as he could be the X-factor for India.
Ashwin said that Varma’s left-handedness gives him an edge over other contenders, as India lack left-handers in their batting line-up. He also said that most teams do not have quality finger spinners who can challenge Varma.
“Will they [selectors] think about Tilak Varma as an option if we don’t have enough backups? Because Sanju Samson has performed really well in ODIs. But the exciting part about Tilak Varma is that he is a left-hander and Team India is lacking left-handers. Jaddu (Ravindra Jadeja) is the only left-handed batter in the top 7,” Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.
“Australia have Ashton Agar. England have Moeen Ali and a leggie in Adil Rashid. So, most teams don’t have a finger spinner to challenge the left-handed batters. That is why the emergence of Tilak is crucial,” Ashwin said.
Varma has certainly made a strong case for himself with his performances in the T20Is, but he might have to bide his time before he gets a chance in ODIs. He will hope to continue his good form in the remaining two T20Is against West Indies.
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