India’s T20I campaign in the UK has taken a disappointing turn, with the team still searching for its first victory on the tour. After losing the series to Ireland, India have also fallen 0-2 behind against England, who have already secured the series with 2 matches still left to play. The poor run has raised serious questions about the team’s performances, especially considering that they won the T20 World Cup just a few months ago.
The recent struggles have also increased the spotlight on the new leadership group led by captain Shreyas Iyer and vice-captain Tilak Varma. Since the World Cup triumph, the Indian team has undergone major changes. Suryakumar Yadav was replaced as captain and later left out of the squad, while Axar Patel was removed as vice-captain. The leadership reshuffle, combined with disappointing results, has brought heavy criticism from fans and former cricketers alike.
One player facing growing scrutiny is Tilak Varma. The left-handed batter has struggled to make a significant impact with the bat, despite being appointed vice-captain. Former India captain Krishnamachari Srikkanth strongly criticised Tilak Varma’s performances and questioned whether he deserves a place in the playing XI. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Srikkanth suggested that Sanju Samson would have been a better option. He also claimed Tilak Varma has looked uncomfortable against pace and bounce and has failed to justify the confidence shown in him by the team management.
Since becoming vice-captain, Tilak Varma has scored 19, 55, 13, 24 not out and 3 in five innings. His only notable contribution came against Ireland, where he scored a fighting 55 in India’s narrow one-run defeat. However, his scores of 13, 24 not out and 3 against England have done little to improve India’s struggling batting performances.
Srikkanth also questioned the team’s strategy regarding Tilak Varma’s batting position. He argued that if the management considers Tilak Varma good enough to be vice-captain and a key batter, they should not protect him from facing opposition fast bowlers. He pointed out that Axar Patel has been promoted ahead of Tilak Varma on several occasions, suggesting that the management is trying to shield him from short-pitched bowling. According to Srikkanth, this sends mixed signals about the confidence the team has in its vice-captain.
With India enduring one of their toughest T20I tours in recent times, pressure continues to mount on both the leadership group and the players to deliver improved performances before the series comes to an end.
