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Tilak Varma credits Gautam Gambhir, saying that the Indian coach challenges him because he feels he has the capability.
India head coach Gautam Gambhir
Young India batter Tilak Varma reflected on his growing role in the national team and the evolving demands of international cricket. The 17-run win in the first ODI over South Africa, driven by Virat Kohli’s record-extending 52nd ODI century and Rohit Sharma’s commanding half-century, gave India a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
During the post-match interaction, Varma expressed his comfort with longer formats and the confidence he gains from sharing a dressing room with India’s modern-day batting giants. He explained that playing ODIs and Tests suits his temperament as a batter and that he is eager to grow in formats requiring patience, maturity, and adaptability.
“ODI and Test cricket feel like my game because I enjoy the longer format. I’m really excited to play more ODIs as well. When Rohit bhai and Virat bhai are in the same team, the confidence level is completely different. They have so much experience and knowledge, and I try to take as much advice from them as possible to get better. I speak to Virat bhai a lot, especially about fitness and running between the wickets. His intensity is incredible. I love running too, and I feel I’m pretty quick, so I really enjoy that part of the game. If we play together, running between the wickets with him is something I look forward to,” Tilak Varma was quoted as saying.
Varma also acknowledged the significant role of mentor and coach Gautam Gambhir in shaping his mental strength. “Gautam sir always gives me confidence. He tells me that if you have the skill, you can play all formats and do well in all formats. He puts me under pressure in practice sessions so I can learn how to handle pressure in matches. He keeps challenging me because he believes I have the capability. That backing means a lot to me,” he added.
Although Tilak Varma has yet to debut in Test cricket, his early performance in white-ball internationals — 661 runs in 23 matches at an average of 38.88 — shows his potential in India’s future plans. With four fifties and a century already, he has showcased the ability to anchor innings and shift gears when needed.
About the Author
Ritayan Basu, Senior Sub-Editor, Sports at News18.com. Has been covering domestic and and international football for nearly a decade. Has played and covered badminton. Ocassionally writes cricket cont…Read More
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December 03, 2025, 08:43 IST
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