Tilak Varma has publicly addressed his shift from the top order to the middle order in India’s T20I lineup, stating that he has had to fundamentally change his approach to batting. The 23-year vice-captain acknowledged that while adapting to different positions is challenging, he views the move as a necessary responsibility rather than a setback. Speaking after the rain-affected series decider against the West Indies in Bengaluru, Varma emphasized that his primary focus remains on contributing to the team’s victory, regardless of the number next to his name on the team sheet.
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The structural shift in India’s batting order has limited opportunities for Varma higher up the line-up. With Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma anchoring the opening partnership and Ishan Kishan firmly established at No. 3, the hierarchy is now clear. Skipper Shreyas Iyer occupies the No. 4 slot, leaving Varma to frequently walk in at No. 5 or 6. This tactical adjustment reflects the team’s ongoing fine-tuning of combinations, where Varma’s role has evolved from a top-order batter to a crucial finisher tasked with accelerating the run rate in the death overs.
Varma expressed confidence in his ability to perform in this new capacity, citing recent successes in winning matches from the lower order. “Ishan is batting brilliantly at No. 3. So, for me, there is no option but to bat at 5 and 6 and do the job for the team,” Varma stated. He noted that he is mentally prepared for the finisher’s role and has demonstrated his effectiveness in recent games. By putting the team’s needs ahead of personal preference, Varma’s adaptation highlights the depth and flexibility of India’s current T20I squad as they prepare for upcoming international fixtures.
Source: Yahoo Sports
