Team India batter Tilak Varma expressed his sincere gratitude to skipper Rohit Sharma for his support and guidance. He revealed how Rohit Sharma’s backing helped him overcome nervousness on the field. The youngster has been picked in India’s squad for the 2023 Asia Cup, which kicks off on August 30.
Tilak Varma has been a terrific performer over the last few years. Owing to his talent and performance, he earned his Team India debut against the West Indies in a T20I earlier this month. He finished the series as the leading run-scorer for his team, making an immediate impact. The left-hander was rewarded with an Asia Cup call-up by the selectors.
“I have never thought of making an ODI debut directly in the Asia Cup. I have always dreamt of playing for India but debuting in two formats in a single year is a big thing for me so I’m preparing for it,” said Tilak Varma in an interview with the BCCI.
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Tilak Varma also spoke about the encouragement and support he has received from Mumbai Indians and Team India skipper Rohit Sharma. He said,
“Rohit Bhai has always backed me, even in the IPL. I was very nervous when I joined the team [Mumbai Indians], but he was the one who came to me and spoke to me. He asked me to enjoy the game and never hesitate in reaching out. He said, ‘Feel free to contact me anytime. Text me or call me, and I’ll be there for you,”
“So that’s what I’m doing everywhere – expressing myself and enjoying the game. The same would be the approach for the Asia Cup as well. I’m happy for my selection,” he added.
Tilak Varma is promising: Ajit Agarkar, India selector
Chief selector of the Men’s Indian cricket team Ajit Agarkar was all praise for Tilak Varma. He shared that the upcoming Asia Cup will be a huge opportunity for the youngster to prove himself at the international level. Speaking at the squad announcement for the 2023 Asia Cup, Ajit Agarkar said,
“Tilak Varma is promising. Asia Cup is a big opportunity for him. We saw some real promise not only in terms of performances but also temperament during the T20I series against West Indies. This will give him exposure. He is also a left-hander. Fortunately, we can take 17 here so opportunity for him to be part of the team.”