India vice-captain Tilak Varma has opened up about the adjustments in his batting approach following his move down the order, revealing that he now looks for scoring opportunities from the very first delivery while maintaining his ability to finish matches.
The left-handed batter, who previously occupied the number three position, has adapted to batting at number five or six, where the demands are different and quick scoring becomes increasingly important.
“I already had the power game; I have scored runs at number three as well. Now, batting at number five or six, I think about going for a boundary off the very first ball only if it’s there to be hit,” Tilak said ahead of the fourth T20I against New Zealand.
“Otherwise, I focus on taking the game deep. I take a bit more time. Initially, I focus on singles and doubles, finding gaps for fours or two runs,” he added.
Tilak has established himself as a dependable finisher over the past year, producing several impressive performances in run chases.
His partnership with Nitish Reddy during the second T20I at Hagley Oval was another example of his ability to handle pressure.
Recalling their match-winning stand, Tilak revealed the conversation that helped the pair remain confident.
“I just told Nitish, ‘if we pull the match off from here, it’s going to be immense fun. Let’s just stay out there, take the game deep, and see what happens’.”
The Indian batter also believes that maintaining a positive mindset during the closing overs gives him an advantage over opposition bowlers.
“In the end overs, as a batter, the bowler is under far more pressure than I am. That positive thought is constantly running in my head, that the bowler is under more pressure, so they are bound to leak runs.”
With India already holding an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-match series, Tilak insisted the team remains focused on completing a clean sweep.
“We are thinking this is a great opportunity to achieve a clean sweep. The next goal is to win the upcoming match and give the Indian crowd a great chance to witness a 5–0 series win.”
Tilak also acknowledged the difficulties of adjusting to New Zealand conditions after India’s series against the West Indies.
“At this level, we cannot make excuses. We are at the highest level, and we need to set standards for the youngsters who look up to us.
“Gautam sir (head coach Gautam Gambhir) made it clear in team meetings that this is a long tour and the standard we set as a T20 side will provide momentum for the ODI and Test squads,” added Tilak.
Image credits: Joe Allison/ Getty Images Sport via Getty Images
