‘It’s become a habit to drive’: Tilak Varma’s cheeky reminder of link-up performances against Pakistan

If there’s one thing Tilak Varma lacks against Pakistan, it’s confidence. And when asked about his recent match-winning exploits against the arch-rivals, India’s T20I vice-captain had a cheeky reminder for all: he’s done that too.Tilak’s unbeaten 51 off just 22 balls in the final of the Asian Games earlier this month helped India win the gold medal. But the left-hander was quick to point out that his latest heroics against Pakistan were hardly isolated, recalling his unbeaten 69 in the 2025 Asia Cup final that proved crucial in India’s successful chase of 147.Ahead of India’s fourth T20I against New Zealand at Eden Park in Auckland, Tilak was asked what confidence his recent knock against Pakistan had given him while batting in the middle order.“(The performance against) Pakistan was good before that too,” he replied with some humour.

‘I’m trying to win the match’: Tilak on handling pressure

Tilak explained that batting at Nos. 5-7 often leaves him with limited opportunities, so it is crucial that he delivers when the team needs him the most.“Whenever I go to bat at No. 5 to 7 in the lower order, I don’t get many at-bats. And even when I do, I get a lot of pressure. So until now, whenever I get a chance, I try to win the game. I try to finish the game,” he said.“It’s not like I didn’t score for 10 matches and then I scored straight away against Pakistan. It didn’t happen like that. As they say, I keep scoring. I stay focused on scoring for the team. I always want to help the team win,” he added.Tilak also praised the positive atmosphere and support in the Indian team that allowed him to stay focused on his role.

An unbeaten record for runs in T20s? Tilak knows that pressure is inevitable

Tilak has also built a reputation for delivering under pressure, with an impressive record of remaining unbeaten in successful T20 chases. However, the left-hander admitted that the nerves never completely go away, regardless of experience.“I can’t say stress. There is always pressure and nerves. There will be constant pressure till the last day of your cricket career,” he said.“But it has become a habit to handle it. Each individual has a different way. Some people breathe. Some talk a little in between to calm their nerves. So each individual is different. I also have my own way,” he added.

India’s mesmerizing win against New Zealand

Tilak’s comments came ahead of the fourth T20I between India and New Zealand at Eden Park in Auckland. As the series enters a crucial phase, India will look to build on their performances and strengthen their position against the Black Caps.The short boundaries at Eden Park could lead to another high-scoring contest that emphasizes power hitting and composure in the middle overs and at the death.For India, Tilak’s ability to absorb pressure and finish matches could prove valuable as they look to maintain their momentum against New Zealand.