Mumbai: India captain Suryakumar Yadav has cleared the air on the team’s middle-order plans for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026, confirming that young gun Tilak Varma will have a fixed slot at No. 3, while he himself will be at No. 4.
Speaking at the BCCI press conference on Saturday, where the 15-member squad was unveiled for the showpiece event co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, SKY revealed the strategic decision aimed at providing clarity and stability. “We have fixed number 3 for Tilak Varma, and then number 4 for me,” he stated, emphasising the move to let players thrive in their preferred positions.
This move comes amid earlier talks of flexibility under head coach Gautam Gambhir, who had downplayed the importance of left-right combinations. However, with the World Cup just weeks away, the leadership has opted for fixed roles to maximise impact. Tilak, who has impressed with consistent performances at No. 3 in recent series, is considered the ideal man to build or accelerate innings post the powerplay.
The announcement adds excitement to a revamped Indian lineup, blending youth and firepower as they aim to defend their 2024 title on home soil.
Fans will watch keenly if this blueprint – likely featuring aggressive openers, followed by Tilak and SKY – unlocks the team’s full potential.
With preparations intensifying, including a home T20I series against New Zealand in January, India’s batting strategy signals confidence and intent.