Tilak Varma Embraces Middle-Order Role Ahead of T20I Against West Indies

Embracing Middle-Order Role

Tilak Varma, India's T20I vice-captain, has adopted a 'team first' mindset as he prepares for the middle-order batting position, despite his preference for the No. 3 spot, ahead of the fourth T20I against the West Indies in Hyderabad on Wednesday. Having frequently batted at No. 5 and No. 6 in the T20I lineup, Tilak expressed his enjoyment in managing the middle overs and his readiness to adjust based on the team's needs.

He stated, "I have often mentioned my love for batting at No. 3. In that position, you get to bat during the powerplay when only two fielders are allowed outside the 30-yard circle, which allows for more freedom to swing the bat. Every batter relishes that role, especially in T20 matches."

Tilak further explained, "Currently, my responsibility is to navigate the middle phase, batting at No. 5, 6, or 7. If we lose quick wickets, I can take my time and guide the innings. Conversely, if our top order lasts until the 14th or 15th over, I am also prepared to accelerate from the first ball."

He added, "I have been training with the mindset to be ready for both scenarios. I have put in a lot of effort, and thankfully, things are going well. I'm enjoying this role right now."

Adapting to Demands

Tilak had previously requested then T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav to let him bat at No. 3 during India's tour of South Africa two years ago, a decision that proved fruitful as he scored consecutive centuries in that position. However, his role has since shifted, requiring him to provide stability in the middle order while being prepared to accelerate when necessary.

Discussing the adjustments needed for batting lower in the order, Tilak noted that this position often requires an aggressive approach, especially when wickets fall quickly or when only a few overs remain. "At No. 4 or 5, as I mentioned earlier, wickets can fall early. Sometimes, only two or three overs are left, and you must start hitting immediately. Therefore, mental strength is crucial. You need to have confidence in yourself; if you lack confidence, the team will too," he remarked.

He continued, "My coach has always taught me that regardless of the batting position, nothing beats winning the match for your team. I strive to do that, and then I assess the conditions, identify which bowler to target, and determine which shots to play on that wicket."

On Costly Run-Out

In the third T20I against the West Indies in Indore, Tilak was part of a costly run-out while trying to stabilize the innings after India lost four wickets in three overs. A mix-up with Axar Patel led to his dismissal.

Reflecting on the incident, Tilak explained that he mistakenly thought the ball had reached the boundary after Axar hit Gudakesh Motie towards square leg. Both players halted their run, believing the ball had touched the boundary hoarding, but West Indies fielder Kamil Pooran managed to stop it and return it to the wicketkeeper.

"I thought the hoarding beyond the boundary line had flashed, so I assumed the ball had hit it and come back inside. Axar shared the same belief," he recounted.

"Unfortunately, I was heading towards the non-striker's end and couldn't see the throw coming in. Our teammates were shouting from the sidelines, but these things happen. Next time, I will keep running until the umpire signals four," he added.

Series Context

In the third T20I, Tilak scored 28 runs off 16 balls, including four boundaries. The upcoming match will take place at his home ground, the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad, where the newly relaid square may affect the pitch's behavior.

India currently leads the five-match series 2-1 and aims to secure an unassailable lead with a victory in Hyderabad. Meanwhile, the West Indies will strive to level the series before the fifth and final T20I in Bengaluru on Saturday.