India’s T20 World Cup 2026 preparations have received a timely boost, with rising batting star Tilak Varma edging closer to full fitness. The left-hander is set to feature in a crucial simulation game at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru, a step that is expected to clear the final hurdle in his return from injury. Tilak underwent abdominal surgery earlier this month, an episode that briefly cast doubt over his availability for the global T20 tournament beginning on February 8.

According to a report in The Times of India, the simulation match will be held on Friday, after which the BCCI medical team is likely to grant him full fitness clearance. If all goes to plan, Tilak will join the rest of India’s T20 World Cup squad on February 3, just in time for the warm-up matches ahead of the marquee event.

Initially, Tilak was tipped to rejoin the national side for the final two matches of the ongoing T20I series against New Zealand. However, the BCCI clarified that while he had resumed physical training, he still needed additional time to regain complete match sharpness.

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As a result, Shreyas Iyer was asked to remain with the squad for the remainder of the series as cover. India are also monitoring the progress of Washington Sundar, who is part of the World Cup squad but is recovering from a rib injury sustained during the first ODI against New Zealand in Vadodara.

Good news for Team India!

Tilak Varma is expected to get fitness clearance today

Details⬇️https://t.co/Pvbj4zlOQq

— News18 CricketNext (@cricketnext) January 30, 2026

The all-rounder is expected to take part in a separate simulation game soon, which will determine his readiness for competitive action. Meanwhile, exciting fast bowler Mayank Yadav has reportedly regained full fitness after a lengthy spell on the sidelines due to a stress fracture. He is set to represent India A during the T20 World Cup warm-up fixtures, a significant step in his comeback journey.

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Batter Riyan Parag, who has been recovering from a shoulder injury, is also expected to feature in Friday’s simulation game in Bengaluru. With several key players nearing full fitness, India’s World Cup build-up is beginning to gather momentum at the right time.