IND vs WI: "Tilak Varma Brings Versatility" - Wasim Jaffer Hails Young India Batter

Former India National Cricket Team batsman Wasim Jaffer has showered praise on the 20-year-old batter Tilak Varma, labeling him as a flexible player, who can bat anywhere between No. 4 and No. 7.

Tilak Varma has been the backbone of the Mumbai Indians (MI) batting unit since making his debut in the 2022 season of the Indian Premier League (IPL). So far he has scored 740 runs in just 25 IPL matches at an impressive average of 38.95 and a brilliant strike rate of 144.53.

Speaking on ESPNcricinfo, Jaffer praised Tilak for bringing versatility to the team. He asserted:

“Tilak Varma is a flexible guy. That’s the good thing about him. He can bat anywhere between No. 4 and No. 7. He can be a finisher also. We have seen him do that for Mumbai Indians. Tilak Varma brings that versatility.”

The youngster is expected to make his T20I debut on the ongoing India tour of West Indies 2023. The first T20I of the five-match series between Hardik Pandya-led India National Cricket Team and Rovman Powell-led West Indies National Cricket Team will be held at the Brian Lara Stadium, Tarouba, Trinidad on Thursday, August 03.

He can bowl off-spin also if needed – Wasim Jaffer on Tilak Varma

Jaffer further said that Tilak can also chip in with a few overs if required and he can be a great asset for the side.

“He can bowl off-spin also if needed. India need somebody like that – a top-order batsman who can bowl a few overs, so that we can have that sixth over seventh bowling option,” the former player said.

Wasim Jaffer further spoke about the shining star Yashasvi Jaiswal and said that he is expecting the young batter to continue his good form in the T20Is against West Indies if given the opportunity.

“Yashasvi Jaiswal bats at the top of the order, and that’s where we need that attacking approach. He has a fearless approach. He’s in top form and is carrying amazing confidence. Just expecting him to play like how he played in the IPL,” the former opener commented.

“They bring quality. I am really looking forward to see Tilak Varma and Yashasvi Jaiswal; how they perform in this T20 series,” he said.