IND vs NZ: Tilak Varma officially ruled out of the first three T20Is against New Zealand, participation for last two games depends on…
(Courtesy : BCCI)
Tilak Varma underwent surgery for abdominal issues on Wednesday, January 7, in Rajkot.
The Indian Cricket Team have faced a massive blow ahead of the T20I series against New Zealand. Star batter Tilak Varma has been ruled out of the first three games of the series, as confirmed by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
Tilak Varma hogged the headlines on Thursday, January 8, when the reports emerged that he underwent emergency surgery after he experienced abdominal pain. However, there was no clarity related to his participation in the IND vs NZ series with some claiming that he might miss the T20 World Cup 2026.
However, BCCI came up with the official statement, confirming that Tilak Varma underwent surgery, adding that will resumed training soon, and is recovering well after the surgery.
The BCCI also stated that Tilak Varma will miss the first three games of the series and his participation for the last two games will depend on how he progresses. Releasing an official statement, the board said:
“India batter Tilak Varma underwent surgery for an abdominal issue in Rajkot on Wednesday, 7 January. He was discharged from the hospital on Thursday morning and is scheduled to fly back to Hyderabad on Friday. He is currently stable and progressing well.
“Tilak will resume physical training and gradually return to skill-based activities once his symptoms have fully resolved and wound healing is satisfactory.
“He is ruled out of the first three T20Is against New Zealand. His availability for the remaining two matches will be assessed based on his progress during the return-to-training and skill phases.”
BCCI yet to name replacement for Tilak Varma for first three IND vs NZ T20Is
The BCCI didn’t mention anything about Tilak Varma’s replacement for the first three IND vs NZ T20Is. But, it is expected that they will soon adding someone to the side as the team prepares for the T20 World Cup 2026.
Tilak Varma missing the first three IND vs NZ T20Is will act as a massive blow for India as he has been one of the best performers in the format. He was sensational in the South Africa series and his absence will leave a huge void in the Indian lineup.
The likes of Shreyas Iyer, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Yashasvi Jaiswal and others have been performing well in the domestic circuit. It remains to be seen who will get the nod ahead if BCCI names a replacement for first three T20Is.
When will IND vs NZ T20I series begin?
The IND vs NZ T20I series will begin on January 21.
Will Tilak Varma play IND vs NZ T20Is?
Tilak Varma has been ruled out of the first three T20I vs New Zealand.
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Ankitjit Singh is a dedicated sports journalist whose childhood dream was to play cricket—now, he serves the game through his work. With over three years of experience in reporting, writing, and editing, he brings deep insight to his coverage. A journalism graduate from Delhi University, Ankitjit’s passion for cricket took root during his college days and continues to drive his career.