The return of star middle-order batter Tilak Varma marks a significant boost for India as they prepare to defend their T20 World Cup title. At just 23 years old, Varma is poised to rejoin the national team this week in Mumbai, following a successful recovery from surgery. His absence from competitive play stemmed from a testicular injury he picked up during a Ranji Trophy match back in early January. After almost a month away from the field, Varma has now completed a rigorous rehabilitation program at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru, culminating in a successful high-intensity simulation match last Friday.
BCCI Announces Tilak Varma’s Comeback
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially confirmed the India A squad intended for warm-up matches ahead of the T20 World Cup. In their announcement, they stated that Tilak Varma would feature in one of these warm-up games before he joins the main squad for the tournament. This news comes as a relief to fans and selectors alike, emphasizing Varma’s critical role in India’s strategy moving forward.
“Presenting India A squad for the warm-up matches ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. India A will play two matches against the USA and Namibia. Note: Tilak Varma will participate in one warm-up match before joining #TeamIndia for the #T20WorldCup,” BCCI shared on their X account when releasing the squad details.
India A Squad for T20 World Cup Warm-Up Matches
The India A squad, set for the warm-up encounters, is as follows:
- Ayush Badoni (C)
- Naman Dhir
- Ashutosh Sharma
- Priyansh Arya
- N Jagadeesan (WK)
- Tilak Varma
- Riyan Parag
- Manav Suthar
- Ashok Sharma
- Urvil Patel
- Gurjapneet Singh
- Vipraj Nigam
- Ravi Bishnoi
- Khaleel Ahmed
- Mayank Yadav
With a blend of experienced and young talent, this squad is geared up to face both the USA and Namibia, which should set the stage for a smooth transition for Varma back into competitive cricket. His presence is expected to fortify the team’s middle order, as they eye another successful T20 World Cup campaign.
Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how Varma performs in the warm-up matches. His dynamic batting style and ability to handle pressure could make a significant difference as India looks to claim another title in the highly competitive 20-team tournament.
As anticipation builds, Tilak Varma’s recovery and return underscore the resilience of young athletes in the face of injury. His journey back to the field is not just a personal triumph but a pivotal element in India’s hopes for success in the T20 World Cup 2026.
