Indian youngster Tilak Varma, who recently returned to India’s ODI squad, has opened up about the strong influence of head coach Gautam Gambhir on his game. Even though Tilak hasn’t played in the ongoing India–South Africa ODI series yet, his latest comments have created a strong buzz among fans.
Tilak, who has become an important name in India T20 setup, said that Gambhir has played a major role in shaping his mentality and helping him understand pressure situations better.
Gautam Gambhir Coaching Style: ‘He Puts Me Under Pressure’
Speaking after the first ODI, Tilak revealed how Gambhir challenges him during practice sessions. He said:
“Gambhir sir always boosts my confidence. He tells me I have the skills to play all three formats. He puts me under pressure during practice so that I learn how to handle big moments in matches. He challenges me because he believes in my abilities.”
“I always say that ODI and Test are my game.”#TilakVarma opens up about his love for the longer formats and why they bring out the best in him. 💙#INDvSA 2nd ODI 👉 WED, 3rd DEC, 12:30 PM on JioHotstar pic.twitter.com/dRrNd0PorT
Tilak added that the mental support he receives from Gambhir has helped him prepare better for international cricket.
Rohit–Virat Influence on Tilak Varma
Tilak also spoke about the positive impact of playing alongside Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.
According to him:
“When Rohit bhai and Virat bhai are in the same team, the confidence level is completely different. I try to learn from them as much as I can. I talk to Virat bhai about fitness and running between the wickets.”
Tilak shared that he enjoys playing the longer formats and believes his natural game suits ODI and Test cricket very well.
Will Tilak Play in the IND vs SA Series?
Tilak has not played a single ODI since December 2023, but he has now made a comeback to the squad after two years. However, he did not get a place in the playing XI for the first ODI in Ranchi.
India won that match by 17 runs after a brilliant 135-run century from Virat Kohli. With India leading the series, the management may still back the same top order for the second ODI. If India seals the series in Raipur, Tilak Varma could get an opportunity in the third ODI on 6 December.
Tilak Varma comments reveal how Gautam Gambhir tough and demanding coaching style is shaping him into a more mature cricketer. With India aiming to win the ODI series against South Africa, Tilak will be hoping for an opportunity to prove himself once again in the 50-over format. If India wins the second ODI in Raipur, all eyes will be on whether the team management gives Tilak a chance in the final match.
