New Delhi: In a heartwarming turn for Indian cricket fans, all-rounder Tilak Varma has made a stunning comeback to the national team after recovering from an injury much sooner than anticipated. Speaking exclusively after India’s dominant 30-run victory over South Africa in a high-scoring warm-up match at DY Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai, Varma expressed profound gratitude to the BCCI and the Center of Excellence for their pivotal role in his swift rehabilitation.
‘I never thought I’d be back on the field this quickly,’ Varma admitted, his voice brimming with emotion. ‘Playing in the World Cup has always been my biggest dream, and stepping out to the roaring chants of ‘Tilak-Tilak’ from a packed stadium gave me an incredible boost. The atmosphere was electric, even for a warm-up game.’
India set the tone by electing to bat first, posting a formidable 240/5 in their 20 overs. Ishan Kishan blazed his way to 53 off just 20 balls, partnering with Abhishek Sharma to propel the score to 80/1 in the powerplay. Both openers retired to give others a chance, paving the way for Varma’s explosive 45 off 19 deliveries. He forged a brisk 66-run stand with captain Suryakumar Yadav, while Axar Patel, Rinku Singh, and Hardik Pandya’s late fireworks sealed the massive total.
South Africa faltered in the chase, losing opener George Linde for a duck to Arshdeep Singh. Aiden Markram and Ryan Rickelton mounted a 65-run recovery, but quick wickets of Markram (retired), Dewald Brevis, Rickelton, and David Miller swung momentum firmly towards India. Despite gritty efforts from Jason Smith, Tristan Stubbs, and Marco Jansen, the Proteas finished 30 runs short.
Varma drew inspiration from the aggressive batting around him, praising teammates like Ishan and Abhishek. ‘The team environment is fantastic, and we’re all fired up for the World Cup,’ he declared. With eyes now on Saturday’s opener against the USA, India’s campaign is off to a blistering start.