India batter Tilak Varma found himself at the centre of social media buzz after a light-hearted moment from the Indian dressing room went viral following India’s T20 World Cup warm-up match against South Africa. In the clip, Tilak appears visibly annoyed as pacer Arshdeep Singh records him without warning while he is eating, prompting the left-hander to ask him to stop.

While the video triggered plenty of reactions online, those close to the team insist it was nothing more than friendly banter between teammates. The moment also highlighted the relaxed environment within the Indian camp. Tilak shares a close bond with Arshdeep Singh and Ishan Kishan, both of whom were present during the exchange.

The trio have often featured together in behind-the-scenes content, and Tilak’s recent appearance in Arshdeep’s YouTube vlog underlined the camaraderie that exists within the squad as they build up to the T20 World Cup. More importantly, Tilak Varma ensured that the conversation quickly returned to cricket with a confident performance in the warm-up fixture.

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Making his return to the Indian side, the 22-year-old played a fluent 45 off just 19 balls against a quality South African bowling attack. His innings, laced with three fours and three sixes, showcased his clean ball-striking and ability to change the tempo in the middle overs — a skill India value highly in T20 cricket.

After the warm-up match against South Africa, Arshdeep Singh, Ishan Kishan, and Tilak Varma were having fun in the dressing room. 😄

Without informing Tilak, Arshdeep Singh suddenly started making a reel by covering Tilak, which annoyed Tilak and made him angry. 🤬🥵 pic.twitter.com/BBGefO7rtu

— Jara (@JARA_Memer) February 4, 2026

The knock carried extra significance after a challenging period for Tilak. He had missed India’s T20I series against New Zealand following emergency surgery for testicular torsion, which kept him sidelined for several weeks. The warm-up outing offered him valuable match practice and a chance to rediscover rhythm ahead of a high-pressure global tournament.

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India head into the T20 World Cup aiming to achieve a rare feat by defending their title. Under head coach Gautam Gambhir, the team has adopted a more aggressive, flexible approach built around intent and adaptability. With Tilak Varma back fit and firing, India’s middle order looks deeper and more dynamic, strengthening their credentials as one of the favourites to go the distance.