Tilak Varma’s preparation for the upcoming T20 World Cup has suffered a sudden setback after the young Indian batter underwent surgery on Wednesday following an injury scare in Rajkot. The 23-year-old, part of India’s T20 World Cup squad, complained of acute groin pain while representing Hyderabad in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy, prompting immediate medical attention and raising concerns about his short-term availability.
Tilak was rushed to a hospital in Rajkot, where scans revealed testicular torsion — a condition marked by sudden and intense pain that requires urgent surgical intervention. Acting swiftly on medical advice, the procedure was carried out successfully, and the left-hander was discharged from the hospital on Thursday.
While the surgery went well, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has confirmed that Tilak will miss the first three T20 Internationals of the five-match home series against New Zealand, scheduled to begin later this month.
WATCH – Marcus Stoinis’ Fiery Send-Off To Babar Azam Sparks Buzz In Big Bash League
Despite the scare, Tilak sounded optimistic about his recovery and return to competitive cricket. Taking to social media, he thanked fans for their support and hinted that he remains hopeful of regaining full fitness in time for the T20 World Cup, which is set to begin in the first week of February.
“Thank you for all the overwhelming love! Already on the road to recovery, and I’ll be back on the field sooner than you know it,” Tilak Varma wrote, offering reassurance amid growing concern among fans and selectors alike.
.
🚨 BCCI STATEMENT ON TILAK VARMA 🚨 pic.twitter.com/eVaXZFd6qD
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) January 8, 2026
Good News from Tilak Varma’s insta story😊
And also his coach said jst a few minutes ago that he will fit within 2 to 3 days. So I would like to tell u All that don’t spread any rumours, no one is going to replace him, he is getting well❤️🩹 #TilakVarma #BCCI #indiancricketteam pic.twitter.com/rTrReaNtVT— AnTaS__🖤 (@antas_ali5) January 8, 2026
A BCCI official, speaking to PTI, confirmed the diagnosis and medical process, stating that specialists were consulted before the surgery was approved. The board further clarified that Tilak is responding well post-operation and will be closely monitored by the medical panel over the coming weeks.
WATCH – Jay Shah’s “Captain” Remark Sparks Rohit Sharma’s Heartwarming Reaction at Public Event
In an official statement, the BCCI said Tilak will only resume physical training once the surgical wound has healed fully. His return will follow a phased approach, starting with light fitness work before progressing to skill-based sessions. While he has been ruled out of the first three T20Is against New Zealand, his availability for the final two matches will depend on how smoothly he progresses through rehabilitation.
For India, Tilak’s fitness remains a key talking point ahead of the T20 World Cup, given his growing importance in the middle order and recent consistency in the shortest format.
