Renowned cricket analyst Aakash Chopra believes that emerging talent Tilak Varma could be a compelling option for India’s middle-order batting lineup in the upcoming ODI World Cup. With his impressive performances in the ongoing T20I series against the West Indies, Varma has caught the attention of experts, sparking discussions about his potential inclusion as an X-factor in the Indian squad for the World Cup.
In the T20I series against the West Indies, Tilak Varma showcased his prowess with the bat, amassing 139 runs at a remarkable strike rate of 139.00 in the first three matches. While he has yet to make his ODI debut, his performances in the T20Is have raised expectations about his capabilities as a potential game-changer for the Indian team.
Aakash Chopra sees Tilak Varma as a captivating option that could bring an X-factor to India’s middle-order lineup. He highlights the advantage of having a left-handed batter in the middle order who can also contribute with some off-spin bowling. Chopra acknowledges that while Varma is currently an option, his potential impact on the squad could make him a surprise element in the World Cup.
Aakash stated, “Tilak Varma could be that X-factor. He is a tempting option because you get a left-hander in the middle order and a little off-spin. So he is an option but currently an option.”
Chopra draws attention to the history of World Cup squads, where unconventional selections have often proven beneficial for the team. He cites examples like Vijay Shankar and Rahul Chahar being chosen ahead of more established players in previous World Cups. He also recalls instances where last-minute changes reshaped the team’s strategy, such as Dinesh Karthik taking on the role of wicketkeeper-batsman instead of Rishabh Pant.
“I am not ruling him out at all because of the way he has started and how World Cup history has been. The World Cup history shows that there is some or the other wildcard entry, so why not Tilak Varma?” Chopra further added.
“One minor injury, you will play IPL but not for India”: Kapil Dev’s Scathing Attack At Indian Star Player
Aakash Chopra’s endorsement of Tilak Varma as a potential X-factor in the World Cup echoes the unpredictability and excitement associated with major tournaments. Chopra’s comparison to wildcard entries from past World Cups underscores the dynamic nature of cricket selections, where emerging talents can disrupt expectations and contribute significantly to the team’s success.
