Archive · 30 Aug 2026
Tilak Varma emerges as India’s middle-order World Cup backup
India is thinking about Tilak Varma as a backup batter for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
He could cover for Shreyas Iyer in the middle order.
Tilak bats left-handed, while many of India’s other top batters bat right-handed.
This could give the team more variety.
The selectors also want him to improve his off-spin bowling.
If he develops it, he might bowl a few overs when the team needs help.
India is concerned about injuries, fitness and the age of some important players.
The team does not want to move players too far from their usual batting positions.
More of India’s World Cup plans may be seen during the tour of New Zealand in late October.
Tilak Varma is reportedly being considered as Shreyas Iyer’s backup for India’s 2027 ODI World Cup plans.
His left-handed batting would add variety to a top six dominated by right-handers.
Selectors want Varma to develop his off-spin and potentially contribute around four overs.
India is seeking younger, flexible backups because of concerns about injuries, fitness and player age.
World Cup planning is expected to become clearer during India’s New Zealand tour in late October.
- Who
- Tilak Varma, Shreyas Iyer, the BCCI selection committee and India’s team management are central to the report.
- What
- India is reportedly considering Varma as a middle-order backup and potential part-time bowling option for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
- When
- The tournament is scheduled for 2027; more significant preparations are expected during India’s New Zealand tour in late October.
- Where
- The World Cup is planned for South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia.
- Why
- Selectors want greater middle-order depth, left-handed batting variety and additional bowling options while managing age and fitness concerns.
- Reported role
- Tilak Varma is being considered as Shreyas Iyer’s potential middle-order backup.
- Tournament
- 2027 ODI World Cup
- Host countries
- South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia
- Batting profile
- Varma is a left-handed batter who can play in the top six.
- Bowling development
- Selectors have encouraged Varma to work on his off-spin, with a possible role of about four overs.
- Selection concern
- India is reportedly worried about limited bowling options among its top-order batters.
- Preparation timeline
- India’s more significant World Cup planning is expected to begin during its New Zealand tour in late October.
