Tilak Varma's Surgery Puts T20 World Cup Participation in Jeopardy

Tilak Varma, a key player for the Indian cricket team, faces uncertainty for the 2025 ICC Men's T20 World Cup due to recent surgery for testicular torsion. His absence from the upcoming T20I series against New Zealand is a significant blow, especially after his stellar performance in the Asia Cup final. With the T20I series set to take place from January 21 to January 31, India aims to prepare for the T20 World Cup 2026, where they will compete against teams like Pakistan and the USA. This article delves into Varma's impressive T20I record and the implications of his injury on India's cricketing future.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 8, 2026, 12:46 IST

Tilak Varma's Surgery Sidelines Him

In a significant setback for the Indian cricket squad, Tilak Varma, celebrated for his performance in the Asia Cup final, is now uncertain for the 2025 ICC Men's T20 World Cup. He has been ruled out of the upcoming five-match T20I series against New Zealand following surgery for testicular torsion.

Varma's Stellar T20I Performance

Over the past year, Varma has emerged as a vital player in the Indian T20I lineup. His standout moment came during the Asia Cup 2025, where he scored an unbeaten 69 runs in the final against Pakistan, leading his team to victory. Since making his T20I debut against the West Indies in August 2023, the 23-year-old has participated in 40 matches and 37 innings, accumulating 1,183 runs with an impressive average of 49.29 and a strike rate of 144.09. His record includes two centuries and six half-centuries.

India-New Zealand T20I Series Details

The five-match T20I series between India and New Zealand is scheduled from January 21 to January 31. The matches will take place in various cities, including Nagpur, Raipur, Guwahati, Visakhapatnam, and Thiruvananthapuram.

Preparation for T20 World Cup 2026

This T20I series serves as crucial preparation for the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup 2026, which will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka. India, the defending champions, are placed in Group A alongside Namibia, the Netherlands, Pakistan, and the United States. Their group-stage matches will kick off against the USA on February 7, followed by games against Namibia on February 12, Pakistan on February 15, and the Netherlands on February 18.