Star Indian middle-order batter Tilak Varma is set to face a frustrating spell on the sidelines after reportedly suffering an abdomen injury, a development that could significantly impact India’s plans ahead of the five-match T20I series against New Zealand and the early stages of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. As per the latest reports, the stylish left-hander is almost certain to miss the entire New Zealand series and may also be unavailable for India’s opening World Cup fixtures.

The India vs New Zealand T20I series, scheduled from January 21 to January 31 across five Indian venues, was expected to be a key opportunity for Tilak to cement his place in India’s middle order. However, his injury setback has altered those plans. India’s first T20 World Cup 2026 match, meanwhile, is slated for February 7 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai against the United States, leaving a tight recovery window for the 23-year-old.

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According to a report by The Indian Express, Tilak Varma experienced severe abdominal pain on January 3 and was rushed to a hospital in Rajkot for scans. The reports were subsequently reviewed by doctors at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence, who have advised him to undergo surgery. If the procedure goes ahead, Tilak is expected to be ruled out for three to four weeks, making his participation in the New Zealand T20Is highly unlikely.

Tilak Varma has just undergone a ‘Testicular Torsion’ surgery. Recovery may be 2-4 weeks – and the T20 World Cup starts in 4 weeks.

Testicular torsion is a medical emergency where the spermatic cord twists, cutting off blood supply to the testicle, causing sudden, severe pain,… pic.twitter.com/dzqeR0GmXI

— Praveen Kumar (@RigidDemocracy) January 8, 2026

With India’s World Cup campaign less than a month away, Tilak’s fitness has become a concern for the team management. While his availability for the opener against the USA looks doubtful, there is optimism that he could return in time for India’s high-profile Group A clash against Pakistan on February 15 in Colombo. Before that, India will face Namibia on February 12 in Delhi.

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The report also suggests that the BCCI selectors will name a replacement for Tilak Varma in the New Zealand series. However, Shubman Gill is unlikely to be considered, despite being India’s vice-captain during the recent South Africa T20I series. Gill was dropped from both the New Zealand squad and the T20 World Cup 2026 squad announced in December, indicating a clear selection strategy going forward.

For Tilak Varma, the coming weeks will be crucial as he races against time to regain full fitness ahead of India’s demanding international calendar.