Tilak Varma reacts after getting maiden India ODI call-up for Asia Cup 2023

Tilak Varma has been named in India’s 17-member squad for the upcoming Asia Cup 2023.

The cricketing world is buzzing with excitement as young batting sensation Tilak Varma has received the opportunity of a lifetime. Fresh off his T20I debut in West Indies, Varma has been selected as part of India’s 17-member squad for the highly anticipated Asia Cup 2023. The announcement comes as a surprise, given his recent entry onto the international stage.

Just yesterday, India unveiled their squad for the forthcoming Asia Cup, a momentous event that cricket enthusiasts around the world eagerly await. The 17-member squad comprises a mix of seasoned players and promising talents. Among them stands out Tilak Varma, the sole debutant in the squad. Varma’s selection was propelled by his standout performances during the T20I series in West Indies, where he emerged as the highest run-scorer for the Indian team.

‘Never dreamed like I will be debuting,’ says Tilak Varma on maiden ODI call-up

Varma’s rise to the national team began with his debut in the five-match T20I series against West Indies. During this series, he showcased his prowess as a left-handed batter, amassing a total of 173 runs with an impressive average of 57.66 and a striking strike rate of 140.65. It was these standout numbers that secured his ticket to the Asia Cup squad.

In a video shared by the BCCI, Varma expressed his emotions at the unexpected opportunity. He revealed, “I never dreamed like I will be debuting directly in the Asia Cup, that too in the One Day side. I was always dreaming that I would be playing in ODIs for India, but it’s a big thing for me.”

“Always dreamed for this. That I would be debuting for India in ODIs. That too in a single year I made my T20 debut and the next month getting a call for the Asia Cup. It’s one of my dream. I’m just preparing for it.”

‘Rohit bhai always backed me,’ Varma on Rohit Sharma

The 20-year-old’s humility and excitement shone through as he acknowledged the significance of making his ODI debut in a prestigious tournament like the Asia Cup.

Varma’s journey to this point has been marked by noteworthy achievements. His remarkable performance in the Indian Premier League (IPL) with the Mumbai Indians caught everyone’s attention. He attributed his growth to the mentorship of Rohit Sharma, the skipper of the Mumbai Indians, who offered the youngster with support and valuable insights. Varma said,

“Rohit bhai always backed me. When I was playing in the IPL, I used to be a bit nervous at the start, he used approach me and talk about the game, saying ‘Always enjoy your game and alway feel free, whenever you want to talk then come anytime to me or text me. I will be there for you anytime.”

This support has not only boosted his performance but has also shaped his approach to the game.

“With that (Rohit’s support) I have expressed myself in IPL and I’m expressing everywhere. I always talk to him. He always told to enjoy your game. So, that’s what I’m doing. And I’m very happy that I’m in Asia Cup squad. I want to do well there as well as I want to enjoy like what I’ve been doing lately.” said Varma

Having honed his skills in the domestic circuit and the under-19 setup, his 1236 runs in List A matches, including 5 centuries and 5 fifties, exemplify his capability in the 50-over game. With this background, Varma expressed his confidence in his ability to excel in ODIs, stating,

“I’m pretty confident of playing One Day cricket because I’ve been playing the format since a very long time in domestic cricket. I have done well in List A cricket for my state and in the under 19s also I have done well.I’m pretty confident that I can do well in ODIs. So, I’m looking forward to it.”

Tilak Varma’s journey from a promising talent to an Asia Cup 2023 contender is a testament to his dedication, hard work, and cricketing talent. His story serves as an inspiration to aspiring cricketers and highlights the crucial role of mentorship in nurturing young talent.

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