In a significant blow to Team India's preparations, young batting sensation Tilak Varma has been ruled out of the upcoming T20 International series against New Zealand due to an abdomen injury. This development has sparked immediate debate about his potential replacement in the squad, with former cricketer and analyst Aakash Chopra strongly backing the experienced Shreyas Iyer for the vacant middle-order spot.
The Injury and Its Implications
Tilak Varma suffered severe abdominal pain on Wednesday morning while in Rajkot for the Vijay Hazare Trophy. He was promptly rushed to a local hospital for scans. A source within the Indian cricket board confirmed that medical experts have advised surgery, with a recovery timeline of three to four weeks.
This timeline casts serious doubt not only on his participation in the New Zealand series but also on his availability for the T20 World Cup, which begins on February 7. India's first World Cup match is scheduled against the USA on the opening day.
Chopra's Clear Choice: The 'Sarpanch'
Weighing in on the selection conundrum, Aakash Chopra left no doubt about his preferred candidate. "Who can it be? Shreyas Iyer. 'Sarpanch' sahab should be picked automatically," Chopra stated emphatically on social media.
He elaborated on his reasoning, highlighting Iyer's current form and vast experience. "He is already playing well and scored in the Vijay Hazare Trophy too. Even when Iyer was not picked in the Asia Cup, it felt slightly unfair, but it was understandable. But there is an opportunity for a middle-order role here," Chopra explained.
Chopra also pointed to Iyer's proven track record in high-pressure tournaments, noting that he "set the IPL on fire" and fits the bill perfectly for the role. "He is also an experienced player... He fits the bill, and Shreyas Iyer gets my vote," the former opener concluded.
Other Contenders and the Selection Logic
While firmly placing Iyer at the top of his list, Chopra also discussed other possible replacements. He mentioned Assam's Riyan Parag as a left-field option, citing his previous T20I experience and useful bowling skills. "Riyan Parag could also be one candidate... He can also bowl and if India is looking for an all-rounder or multi-skilled player, Riyan Parag could be that guy. But my vote is for Shreyas Iyer. I would place Parag at No.2," he said.
Chopra also considered wicketkeeper-batter Jitesh Sharma, who has been part of the T20 setup recently. However, he dismissed the idea of adding a third keeper to the squad. He explicitly ruled out openers like Ruturaj Gaikwad, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Shubman Gill, emphasizing that the team specifically requires a middle-order batter.
The injury to Tilak Varma has thus created a critical decision point for the national selectors. They must choose between reinstating a seasoned campaigner like Iyer, who is hungry for a comeback, or experimenting with a younger talent like Parag, as they finalize the squad for the final T20I series before the World Cup.
