New Delhi: Indian star batter Tilak Varma addressed the topic of batting positions within the current T20I team during a recent press conference. He emphasized that, while players are generally adaptable to batting in various positions, the opening slots remain fixed.
The Indian T20 batting lineup has received commendation for its aggressive style; however, inconsistencies have also been evident, as highlighted during the second T20I against South Africa, where India faced a significant defeat by 51 runs.
As India prepares for the upcoming T20 World Cup scheduled for February next year, Tilak pointed out that adaptability within the batting order is crucial. “Everyone is flexible except the openers. I am open to batting at 3, 4, 5, or 6—wherever the team prefers,” he stated. He added that team decisions regarding batting order should be based on tactical considerations rather than rigid roles, noting, “One-off games keep happening. Axar Patel has already done the same thing, and he did well there.”
In discussing the pitch conditions at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamsala, Tilak expressed optimism about the wicket being favorable for batters. He mentioned his past experience playing in the area: “I have played an Under-19 India series here before. We are observing the wicket, and I feel it will be a high-scoring one.”
However, he acknowledged that the cold weather might provide early assistance to bowlers. With dew likely to impact the match starting at 7 PM, Tilak noted that the team is mentally prepared for these conditions. “We don’t have control over the toss. We are preparing for the dew and have practiced with a slightly wet ball,” he concluded.
