Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav’s decision to promote young Tilak Varma to the number three position in the fourth and final T20I against South Africa turned out to be a masterstroke. The bold move showcased not only the skipper’s foresight but also Tilak’s incredible potential, culminating in a series-clinching performance.
Tilak, who had been batting at number four earlier in the series, approached Suryakumar in Gqeberha, requesting a promotion in the batting order. Without hesitation, Suryakumar decided to relinquish his own position at number three, seeing an opportunity to nurture the young batter.
“It was actually running in my mind that there has been a time when one man has batted consistently at No. 3 and done wonders for India. This was a perfect situation, a perfect opportunity for a young guy showing so much promise. We spoke, and I said, ‘This is your time to step up,’ not just for now but for the future,” Suryakumar Yadav shared, as quoted by Cricbuzz.
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Tilak Varma seized the opportunity with both hands, smashing his second consecutive T20I century and becoming only the fifth player in history to achieve this milestone. His staggering strike rates of 191.07 and 255.32 in the last two matches were pivotal in India securing a 3-1 series victory over South Africa.
“And he just walked the talk. The way he batted at Supersport Park and here today was incredible. I hope he continues this form, not just in T20 cricket but across all formats for India,” Suryakumar Yadav added.
Varma’s journey has not been without challenges. After enduring two hand injuries that sidelined him from series in Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka, his return has been nothing short of inspiring. His standout innings at Wanderers helped India post their second-highest T20I total of 283/1.
Suryakumar Yadav acknowledged the upcoming selection dilemmas, particularly with players like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill expected to return soon.
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“It’s a good headache to have when you have 20-25 quality players and need to pick 15. When they return, we’ll discuss and decide with the team management, selectors, and BCCI. For now, it’s a positive challenge for Indian cricket,” he concluded.
This move by Suryakumar not only elevated Varma’s stature but also highlighted the depth and promise within India’s cricketing ranks.
