Former Australia cricketer Brad Hogg has identified young batter Tilak Varma as a potential future captain for India in the T20I format. Hogg praised Tilak’s intelligence and cricketing acumen, expressing confidence in his ability to lead the team in the future. The former spinner also commended opener Abhishek Sharma for his explosive performance in the first T20I against England in Kolkata.

Abhishek played a sensational innings, scoring a blistering half-century that propelled India to victory and gave them a 1-0 lead in the five-match series. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Hogg shared his admiration for Tilak Varma, emphasizing the youngster’s maturity and strategic thinking.

“Tilak Varma is a player I absolutely love, and I think he’s going to be a future captain of India in this shorter format. He’s very smart and has a great cricketing brain,” Brad Hogg stated.

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During the first T20I, Tilak batted at No. 4 and contributed an unbeaten 19 off 16 balls, including three boundaries. While his role was supportive, he played a crucial part alongside Abhishek Sharma, forming an 84-run partnership for the third wicket. This stand effectively put India in a winning position, and Tilak ensured a composed finish after Abhishek’s dismissal toward the end of the chase.

Tilak Varma’s T20I record is already impressive. In 21 matches, he has amassed 635 runs at an average of 52.91 and a strike rate of 159.54, including two centuries and two half-centuries. His recent performances in South Africa further cemented his reputation, where he was named Player of the Series after scoring 280 runs in four matches at a stunning average of 140 and a strike rate of 198.58.

Brad Hogg also heaped praise on Abhishek Sharma for his fearless batting. “Abhishek has had some lean patches, but it’s great to see the coach and captain backing him. Players like him need freedom to express themselves, and in T20 cricket, you have to take risks at the top of the order,” Hogg said.

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Abhishek’s 79 off 34 balls, featuring five fours and eight sixes, was a masterclass in attacking cricket. He dismantled both pacers and spinners with ease, showcasing his ability to dominate in the shortest format. Hogg believes India’s faith in players like Tilak and Abhishek will pay off in their continued growth and success on the international stage.