Tilak Varma has been named vice-captain of the Indian squad for the three-match T20I series against Afghanistan, which commences on September 13, with subsequent matches scheduled for September 15 and September 17. Shreyas Iyer continues to lead India in the T20I format for this assignment. Varma’s elevation to the vice-captaincy represents significant recognition of his growing stature in Indian cricket, though uncertainty persists regarding his exact position in the batting lineup.
The 23-year-old southpaw has fluctuated between different batting slots across recent series. During India’s three-match T20I series against Zimbabwe in July, Varma batted at number five and accumulated 77 runs across three games from 43 balls faced. More recently, he has impressed in the ongoing Duleep Trophy 2026, where he has recorded scores of 116 not out, 51 not out and 99 as South Zone captain, demonstrating his capability when batting lower in the order.
However, AB de Villiers wondered where Tilak would bat during the T20Is against Afghanistan as the southpaw has gone up and down the batting order in recent times. Most of his success in T20I cricket in recent matches has come when he has batted lower down the order. However, he has two centuries from the No. 3 spot.
“There will definitely be some selection issues with regards to the batters. Obviously, Shreyas, captain, Ishan Kishan, Samson, Suryavanshi, and then there are all-rounders, Tilak Varma, I think that’s where the balance is quite tricky. Where will he bat?” de Villiers said in his latest YouTube video.
De Villiers acknowledged the strength in India’s squad but opined that finding the right balance is going to be very crucial for the Men in Blue. He also highlighted the importance of role clarity.
“Really, really strong squad, but the balance will be tricky to figure out. It is T20 cricket, so they can play around with the squad a little bit. There are different roles, but the role clarification will still be incredibly important for India, as they are playing quite a dangerous team,” de Villiers stated.
Role clarity crucial for India’s T20I balance
The uncertainty surrounding Varma’s slot in the batting order reflects the depth of India’s T20I squad, with multiple options available across the middle order. De Villiers’ assessment highlighted that while India possesses the talent to compete effectively, the tactical deployment of players like Varma will be critical to the team’s success against Afghanistan.
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The series beginning September 13 will provide clarity on how India’s management intends to utilise the 23-year-old’s skills in the upcoming matches.
