Suryakumar Yadav Explains Tilak Varma’s Slow Batting in T20 World Cup 2026

India captain Suryakumar Yadav said the team management had asked Tilak Varma to anchor the innings when early wickets fall.

As the T20 World Cup 2026 moves into the Super 8 stage, Tilak Varma’s approach in the middle overs has come under focus. Instead of playing aggressive shots, Tilak has chosen to anchor the innings, a strategy that has raised questions among fans and experts. His cautious batting has drawn attention, especially with Abhishek Sharma also struggling for runs at the top.

Tilak has found it difficult on pitches where the ball grips and slows down. However, the Indian team management has backed his method. Captain Suryakumar Yadav clarified that Tilak is following specific instructions from the team think tank, particularly in situations where India lose early wickets.

“The team management has told him to bat that way. If one wicket falls, he can play his natural game during the powerplay. But if two wickets are down, he needs to take a backseat, build a partnership, reach the 10th over, and then we have enough firepower to take on the bowling,” Surya told the media on Saturday.

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Suryakumar stressed that the role given to Tilak depends on the match situation. The management wants him to stabilize the innings if the team is under pressure and allow the power hitters to attack later in the innings.

“But yes, he is likely not satisfied with his current batting performance. He has practised a lot in the last 2-3 sessions. However, I have no concerns about him. He has been performing well for India at No. 3, and I am confident he will improve,” he added.

With the Super 8 stage approaching, India will hope that Tilak finds his rhythm soon. The team remains confident in his ability to adapt and deliver when it matters most.