Tilak Varma, the newest T20I debutant for India, produced a courageous innings in the first T20I game against the West Indies, smashing 39 from 22 balls. He played strong strokes, particularly two sixes during his inaugural international cricket innings, to mark his debut. Varma’s effort was highly applauded, despite India’s defeat in the game, and it is anticipated that he will continue to play for India in T20Is in the future.
The talented young player, who rose to prominence during the Indian Premier League whilst representing the Mumbai Indians, spoke candidly about receiving his first call-up to the national team and how emotional it was for him and his family.
I wanted to do well in the IPL: Tilak Varma
In an interview with Ishan Kishan for the Indian Cricket Board, Varma explained that he received the call while competing in the Duleep Trophy as well as that both of his parents were visibly upset by the whole thing. He said, “I got to know while playing in the Duleep Trophy. They were very emotional. I spoke briefly to mom and dad.”
During his first IPL match, Varma gained attention. He scored 397 runs for Mumbai Indians in 14 games during the 2022 IPL season, including 29 fours as well as 16 sixes. During the 2023 IPL season, during which he amassed 343 runs across 11 games, his talent continued to stand out.
The Mumbai Indians batter spoke about his glorious experience with the Indian Premier League franchise and how he wants to achieve more great things with the side. He said, “I wanted to do well in the IPL and wanted to focus on my process.”
Varma’s quick-fire century in the opening T20I of the series was unable to salvage India. When asked what he intended to get out of the trip, Varma responded that he was solely focused on playing as fearlessly as he could. The left-handed batter said that “West Indies is a very good side in T20Is and I want to focus on my basics. I do not want to be nervous and I have spoken to the seniors that I want to give my hundred per cent and play my natural game even if I get out.”
A fun chat between Tilak Varma and Ishan Kishan. pic.twitter.com/rxtlPrxcEv
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) August 6, 2023
