Unfazed by the pressure, Tilak Varma has the makings of a future leader: a Pathan

Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has backed Tilak Varma to become a future leader in Indian cricket, praising his mental strength and versatility after his match-winning performance against New Zealand in the second T20I in Christchurch on Saturday.

Tilak produced an unbeaten 51 off just 26 balls to lead India to a thrilling four-wicket victory, to help the visitors chase down 181 with one ball to spare. India were in serious trouble at 70 for five before Tilak settled the innings and led a late onslaught along with Naman Dhir and Nitish Kumar Reddy.

Taking to his YouTube channel, Pathan highlighted Tilak’s ability to adapt to different batting positions and play under pressure, saying that his mindset sets him apart.

“Tilak Varma is an outstanding batsman and an incredible all-rounder. He scored two international centuries batting at No.3 for India but now he has come down the order and has been winning matches with his tremendous fast-batting ability in the final overs of the world cup and has put in outstanding performances,” Irfan Pathan said on his YouTube channel.

TILAK SHOWS HIS MENTAL POWER

India’s chase seemed to be slipping away as New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner dismantled the middle order with four wickets for 21 runs. However, Tilak held his nerve and found an able partner in Nitish Kumar Reddy, who scored an unbeaten 26 off 13 balls.

IND vs NZ 2nd T20I: MAIN | SCORECARD

Tilak first added 42 runs off 25 balls with Naman Dhir making 31 off 17 deliveries and then joined forces with Reddy for an unbeaten 69 off just 30 balls. The partnership took India to 181 for six in 19.5 overs and completed a remarkable turnaround.

Tilak hit six fours and a six to bring up his half-century off 25 balls. His ability to handle pressure was particularly impressive considering he was dismissed cheaply in the previous match while batting at No. 3. Pathan pointed out the contrast between the two innings and highlighted how Tilak shrugged off that setback and adapted to the demands of the chase.

“Look at this match. India needed to score more than 12 runs in overs in the last five overs. Wickets were falling, the team was under pressure and the opposition was turning. India managed only seven runs in one over. But when the fast bowlers came in, Tilak batted brilliantly. He hits well in front of him, plays the midwicket area exceptionally well and has no very good batting early in the day. 3. He lost his wicket due to spinner, but he put that setback behind him and made an unbeaten fifty, which tells you how strong his mindset is,” Pathan added.

‘TILAK VARMA IS THE LEADER OF THE FUTURE’

Pathan believes that Tilak’s willingness to bat in different positions and take on any role makes him a strong candidate to lead in the coming years. The former all-rounder said mental strength is essential for a leader and praised the young batsman’s willingness to put the needs of the team first.

“That’s why I keep saying he is the leader of the future. To lead a team you have to be mentally strong and Tilak has shown that quality. Tilak is versatile. He can bat higher up the order or come in at number 5, 6 or 7. He knows his game and is willing to do whatever the team asks of him. No. 3? Yes sir. 6th in the order No. 7 sir, sir? Yes sir? He is ready to do everything, that’s quality leader, so good, Tilaku Varma,” Pathan further said.

Tilak’s match-winning contribution came after New Zealand recovered from an early collapse to 180 for five. Glenn Phillips top scored with 70 off 43 balls while Bevon Jacobs made 58 off 46 deliveries. The pair added 116 runs for the fourth wicket after India reduced the hosts to 41 for three.

Arshdeep Singh led India’s bowling effort with two wickets for 33 runs, while Prince Yadav and Bhuvneshwar Kumar also struck early. Nitish Reddy took one wicket before playing a crucial role in the chase.

– The end