Tilak Varma Emphasizes Batting Versatility After Stellar Performance Against South Africa

Tilak Varma's outstanding performance in the fifth T20I against South Africa showcased his batting flexibility, contributing significantly to India's series victory. With a remarkable 73 runs and a strong partnership with Hardik Pandya, who scored 63 runs, the duo propelled India to a total of 231/5. Varma emphasized his willingness to adapt his batting position for the team's success, while Pandya set records with his explosive innings. This article delves into their performances and the match summary, highlighting India's triumph in the series.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 20, 2025, 02:23 IST

Tilak Varma Discusses Batting Flexibility

Following his impressive fifty in the fifth T20I against South Africa, Tilak Varma expressed his readiness to adapt his batting position as needed by the Indian team. Varma scored a remarkable 73 runs off 42 balls, while Hardik Pandya contributed a fiery 63 off just 25 deliveries, leading India to a formidable total of 231/5.

Varma highlighted his focus on team success over personal batting order preferences, stating, "I have previously mentioned that aside from the openers, we are prepared to bat in any position. I have experience batting at 3, 4, and 5. My primary goal is to secure a win for the team, so I aim to adjust to the situation. While I enjoy batting at the top, I am willing to play wherever the team requires me."

Varma and Pandya's Dynamic Partnership

The partnership between Pandya and Varma was instrumental in India's 30-run victory, securing the five-match T20I series 3-1 against South Africa. Their explosive collaboration yielded 105 runs off just 44 balls for the fourth wicket.

Varma Praises Pandya's Batting Skills

Varma commended Pandya's batting performance, describing it as a delight to witness from the non-striker's end. He noted, "Watching him hit every ball with precision was fantastic. The partnership and his batting were crucial on this pitch, and his intent from the very first ball was splendid to observe."

Hardik Pandya's Record-Setting Innings

Pandya achieved the second-fastest fifty for India in T20I history, reaching a half-century in just 16 balls during his innings of 63 runs off 25 balls. His performance included five fours and six sixes in the decisive match against South Africa in Ahmedabad. Additionally, he took the important wicket of Dewald Brevis in the second innings.

During this match, Pandya also became the fifth Indian player to surpass 2000 runs in T20I cricket, joining the ranks of notable players such as Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.

Match Recap: India Secures Series Victory

In the match, India set a target of 231/5, driven by Varma's explosive 73 and Pandya's rapid 63. Pandya's fifty, achieved in just 16 balls, made him the second-fastest Indian to reach this milestone in T20Is, following Yuvraj Singh's record of 12 balls. At one point, India was at 115 for 3, but the partnership between Hardik and Tilak, which produced 105 runs off 44 balls, significantly boosted the team's total.

In response, Varun Chakravarthy's four-wicket haul was pivotal in securing the series-clinching victory for India, with Hardik also contributing with a wicket in his three overs.