New Delhi: India all rounder Tilak Varma expressed surprise and gratitude after making an early return from injury, saying he did not expect to be back on the field so soon ahead of the T20 World Cup. The left handed batter thanked the BCCI and the Centre of Excellence for guiding his recovery and helping him regain match fitness in time for the global tournament.
Tilak, who featured in India’s warm up victory over South Africa in Navi Mumbai, said the atmosphere at the packed DY Patil Stadium filled him with confidence. Hearing the crowd chant his name as he walked out to bat was a special moment, he admitted, and it strengthened his belief that he was ready for the challenge ahead. The youngster described playing in front of such enthusiastic supporters even in a preparatory match as an unforgettable experience.
Inspired by the aggressive intent shown by his teammates, Tilak produced a quickfire innings that underlined his readiness. He said watching the fearless batting of players around him motivated him to play his natural attacking game. The team environment, according to him, felt energetic and positive, reinforcing the sense that India are well prepared for the World Cup campaign.
India opted to bat first and delivered a dominant batting display. Ishan Kishan set the tone with a blazing 53 off just 20 balls, while Abhishek Sharma provided strong support as the openers raced to 80 for one inside the powerplay. Both retired out to give opportunities to others, allowing the middle order to continue the momentum.
Tilak struck 45 from only 19 deliveries and added a rapid partnership with captain Suryakumar Yadav. Later, valuable contributions from Axar Patel and Rinku Singh, along with a sensational ten ball 30 from Hardik Pandya, carried India to an imposing total of 240 for five.
South Africa’s reply never gathered real pace after Arshdeep Singh removed George Linde for zero. Aiden Markram and Ryan Rickelton attempted a recovery with a steady stand, but wickets at crucial moments pushed the visitors onto the back foot. Despite late resistance from Tristan Stubbs and Marco Jansen, the target proved too steep and India secured a 30 run win.
The team will now shift its focus to the tournament opener against the United States on Saturday, with Tilak’s return adding further strength to an already confident squad.
