India captain Suryakumar Yadav has firmly backed Tilak Varma amid criticism of his slow scoring rate in the ongoing T20 World Cup, dismissing suggestions that the young batter could be replaced in the playing XI.
Tilak, whose career strike rate is above 141, has seen his tempo drop to the 120s in the tournament. He has struggled against slow bowlers on surfaces where the ball has gripped more, managing just 11 boundaries and three sixes across four group-stage matches. His cautious approach has drawn scrutiny, especially compared to Suryakumar’s ability to anchor and accelerate.
However, Suryakumar clarified that Tilak’s role is part of a team strategy.
“I have told him, the team management has told him that he has to bat that way. If one wicket is down, he can play his own game. But as soon as two wickets are down, he has to take a little backseat, build a partnership till the 10th over, and then we have enough firepower,” Suryakumar explained.
Tilak Varma Under Pressure But Trusted
The Indian skipper admitted that Tilak himself would be unhappy with his recent form but expressed confidence in his abilities.
“I’m sure he must not be happy with how he is batting right now. But I don’t have any concern regarding him. He has been delivering for India at No. 3 really well, and I am confident he will do better,” he said.
Suryakumar also laughed off suggestions that Sanju Samson should replace Tilak in the lineup.
“You mean I should make him play for Tilak?” he joked, adding that expectations of 220–250 totals were unrealistic given the challenging pitches.
Conditions and Team Strategy
The Indian captain noted that wickets in the tournament have been different and more challenging, with off-spinners playing a bigger role. He said the team is already preparing to tackle those conditions in the Super 8 stage.
Suryakumar also expressed confidence in India’s bowling attack, stating that the team can defend par scores of 170–180.
“I take a lot of pride in my bowling unit. Even if we make 170 or 180, we have a bowling attack that can save the match,” he said.
Toss, Dew and Mindset
Downplaying the importance of the toss, Suryakumar called it “overrated”, saying teams can still defend totals even with dew.
He also dismissed concerns about the law of averages catching up with India.
“We try to stay in the present. We don’t think about law of averages. We focus on the game we are playing that day,” he concluded.