Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has strongly backed Tilak Varma following his selection in the 15-member Team India squad for the upcoming India vs South Africa ODI series. The three-match series begins on November 30, and Pathan believes selecting Varma offers crucial balance and firepower to India’s middle order.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) named the squad with KL Rahul as captain, while regular skipper Shubman Gill misses out due to a neck injury. The squad also marks the return of Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja, adding experience to India’s lineup.
Why Pathan Believes Varma’s Value Has Risen
Irfan Pathan mentioned that Varma’s memorable match-winning 69 not out in the Asia Cup 2025 final versus Pakistan should have significantly boosted his reputation.“After that, his stock should’ve gone up,” Pathan said, highlighting how pressure situations in big tournaments bring out Varma’s temperament and maturity.
Pathan suggested that in the absence of injured Shreyas Iyer, Varma could be a strong candidate to bat at No. 4 in the ODI format.He praised Tilak’s ability to settle in, handle pressure, and play unconventional strokes like the slog sweep, calling him a “left-hander who is good at running between the wickets.”
He added, “He takes time to settle and handles pressure well … he is a player who can do very well in the ODI format.”
What India Hopes to Gain in the South Africa Series
India’s squad for the Pakistan tour—with Varma in the squad—is designed to build a flexible middle order, especially with Iyer unavailable. Pathan’s confidence in Varma underscores a call for adaptability, where India can rotate youth and experience based on match situations.
Tilak Varma’s inclusion could bring a modern, aggressive batting style to India’s central order. Pathan’s endorsement also signals that senior voices in Indian cricket value Varma’s composure and shot-making under pressure.
As Team India prepares for the India vs South Africa 2025 ODI series, Varma’s confidence and Pathan’s backing add a compelling subplot to what looks like a balanced and dynamic squad.
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