India’s interim head coach reveals discussion with Tilak Varma

After having a sensational time in West Indies, youngster Tilak Varma has failed to live up to his potential in the T20I series against Ireland. In the opening match of the series, he failed to open his account; while in the second, he could score only one run. Thus, ahead of the final match of the series, the Hyderabad-born cricketer is determined to get better and spoke in detail with India’s stand-in head coach Sitanshu Kotak about the areas he needs to improve.

Revealing the discussion, Kotak, who is leading in the absence of Rahul Dravid, mentioned that the cricketer just wanted to practice more and wanted to talk about his mindset. Kotak also added that on tours, the team often talks about tactics and not much about technical aspects, but it has been different in this case. He also went on to add that it’s usually difficult for a player to change his technical aspects in a matter of just a few days.

“He (Tilak Varma) just wanted to practice. He talked about his mindset, his shot selection and it was a normal discussion on what I think and what his plans are. On tours, if anything, we talk more about tactics. He spoke about how to build his innings and how he should approach the last game,” Kotak said in the press conference.

“We do not speak much on technical aspects unless the player requires it and provided there is enough time. I do not think you can change a player technically during a series, within a week or two-three days,” he added.

Meanwhile, Tilak Varma has been called up for the upcoming Asia Cup, slated to begin on August 30. Despite not having any experience in the ODI format, the cricketer earned his call-up following the terrific Windies series. Hence, many eyes will be on him as India may require a middle-order batter since chief selector Ajit Agarkar confirmed that KL Rahul missed a couple of games in the tournament.