India, Feb 12 : India’s left handed batter Tilak Varma has urged his teammates not to underestimate any opponent in the Men’s T20 World Cup, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the shortest format where “any team can defeat anyone.” Defending champions India are set to face Namibia in their second Group A fixture at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Thursday evening.
Speaking at a pre-match press conference, Varma emphasised the importance of reading conditions while staying true to fundamentals. He credited Suryakumar Yadav for guiding the innings in the previous outing against the USA and reiterated that every delivery can shape the outcome of a T20 contest.
The youngster also affirmed his willingness to bat at any position, noting the significance of stability during the middle overs. With several aggressive hitters in the lineup, Varma said he is comfortable anchoring the innings when required and taking the game deep, especially during chases.
He explained that his approach is shaped by match situations, as factors such as pitch behaviour, atmosphere, and bowling combinations vary from game to game. Remaining present and reacting instinctively, he added, allows him to make better decisions at the crease.
Varma revealed that head coach Gautam Gambhir has advised the side to remain cautious if wickets fall in quick succession — a scenario India encountered when reduced to 77/6 against the USA. According to him, both he and Suryakumar are prepared to steady the innings when necessary, particularly between overs six and sixteen, which he described as a decisive phase in T20 cricket.
Recently returning from emergency lower abdomen surgery in Rajkot, Varma expressed gratitude for rejoining the national squad and competing in his maiden World Cup. He underlined his commitment to fulfilling any role the team demands, with the ultimate objective of helping India secure the title.
Discussing his mental preparation, the batter shared that he regularly visualises high-pressure match scenarios, a practice he continued even during rehabilitation at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. The routine, he said, kept him mentally engaged and ready for competition despite the injury layoff.
Looking beyond the group stage, Varma advocated a match by match mindset, insisting that focusing on immediate challenges is key to sustained success in a global tournament.
Reflecting on playing a World Cup at home, he described it as a dream opportunity for any Indian cricketer. While acknowledging the weight of expectations, Varma said the backing of home crowds provides added motivation, helping the team embrace both the pressure and privilege of competing in familiar conditions.