'Hope He Plays Tests': Azharuddin Hails Tilak Varma After NZ Thriller
Former captain Mohammed Azharuddin praises Tilak Varma's match-winning knock against NZ and pushes for his inclusion in the Indian Test team.
Former Indian captain Mohammed Azharuddin has thrown his weight behind the rising star Tilak Varma, urging the selectors to consider the youngster for the longest format of the game. The praise came after Varma played a pivotal role in India's dramatic victory over New Zealand in the second T20I, proving once again that he thrives under pressure during high-stakes run chases.
A Masterclass in Composure
In a tense encounter at Christchurch, India found themselves in a precarious position while chasing a target of 181. After a promising start, the world champions suffered a middle-order collapse, sliding from a comfortable 40/0 to a worrying 112/6, largely due to a devastating spell from Mitchell Santner, who claimed four wickets.
However, Tilak Varma stepped up when the team needed him most. Displaying exceptional game awareness and calculated acceleration, Varma remained unbeaten on 51 off just 26 deliveries, smashing six boundaries and a six. Alongside Nitish Kumar Reddy, who contributed 26* off 13 balls, Varma stitched together a crucial 69-run partnership to seal the win with just one ball remaining.
Azharuddin’s Call for Test Inclusion
Speaking to ANI, Hyderabad legend Mohammed Azharuddin expressed his delight at Varma's performance, emphasizing that while the youngster is excelling in the shortest format, his potential extends far beyond T20s.
"Today, I am very happy with the way Tilak Varma has played. He is a very good player, and I sincerely hope and pray that he gets the opportunity to play Test cricket," Azharuddin stated. "For me, Test cricket is the most important format, and I hope he goes on to represent India in Tests as well."
Azharuddin also congratulated the entire squad, noting that while Varma played a crucial role, the victory was a testament to the team's collective effort.
The Red-Ball Credentials
Azharuddin's push for Varma's inclusion in the Test side is backed by impressive first-class numbers. Tilak Varma has already proven his mettle in longer formats, accumulating 1,828 runs across 25 matches and 38 innings. With a stellar average of 57.12, his record includes five centuries and seven half-centuries, with a career-best score of 121.
Match Recap: A Rollercoaster Encounter
The match was a see-saw battle from the start. After winning the toss and electing to bowl, India initially dominated, reducing New Zealand to 41/3 within the powerplay. However, a massive 116-run partnership for the fourth wicket between Glenn Phillips (70 off 46) and Bevon Jacobs (58 off 46) propelled the Kiwis to 180/5.
On the bowling front for India, Arshdeep Singh led the attack with 2/33, while Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Prince Yadav, and Nitish Kumar Reddy each claimed a wicket.
India's chase was kept alive not only by Varma and Reddy but also by a quickfire 31 off 17 balls from Naman Dhir, which provided the necessary momentum before the final flourish. With this victory, India now holds a commanding 2-0 lead in the five-match series.