Former India captain and chief selector Kris Srikkanth has once again questioned Tilak Varma’s place in India’s T20I squad, urging the selectors to consider Rajat Patidar for a regular role in the middle order. Srikkanth’s comments came after Tilak failed to make a significant impact in the third T20I against Zimbabwe, despite India completing a convincing 3-0 series sweep.

Batting in the lower middle order, Tilak remained unbeaten on 11 off nine deliveries as India posted 192/5 before restricting Zimbabwe to 157/7. Although the left-hander had starred with a blistering 60 not out off 29 balls in the second T20I, Srikkanth believes his inconsistency and struggles against spin continue to raise concerns.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, the former selector said Tilak has not delivered enough consistently at the international level and claimed Rajat Patidar deserves an opportunity after being overlooked for the UK tour, the Zimbabwe T20I series, and India’s squad for the 2026 Asian Games.

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“Once again, Tilak consumed nine balls. He cannot keep playing slowly for long periods. Where is the consistency? What did he do in England? There may be one good innings here and there, but he is nothing compared to Rajat Patidar. If you want a genuine T20 batter, give Patidar a chance,” Kris Srikkanth said.

India have attempted to maximize Tilak’s strengths by using him as a finisher, but that role also puts him in direct competition with established all-rounders Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube, making his long-term place in the playing XI far from certain.

Meanwhile, Patidar strengthened his credentials with an outstanding IPL 2026 campaign, leading Royal Challengers Bengaluru to their maiden title. The right-handed batter amassed 501 runs in 14 innings at an impressive average of 41.75 and a remarkable strike rate of 192.69, including five half-centuries. His proven ability to dominate spin and accelerate through the middle overs has made him a strong contender for a return to India’s T20I setup.

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However, replacing Tilak may not be an easy decision. The Indian team management has shown significant faith in the 23-year-old by appointing him vice-captain of the T20I side, indicating that he remains an integral part of the team’s long-term plans despite the recent criticism surrounding his performances.