Social media is abuzz with a string of remarkable similarities between Suresh Raina and Tilak Varma, both celebrated left-handed Indian batters, ever since Tilak’s successful IPL debut in 2022. This comparison gained momentum on Wednesday when Tilak scored his first T20I century at number three—just as Raina did in 2010 when he became the first Indian to reach a T20I hundred. Coincidentally, both batters debuted at 20 and took a wicket with their part-time off-spin in their first overs.
Tilak’s century at Centurion may be a pivotal moment in his career, cementing his role among India’s emerging top-order players. His impressive 51-ball hundred showcased his adaptability, overcoming early struggles with spin and mastering the challenging deliveries by South Africa’s Marco Jansen and Gerald Coetzee. Starting with aggressive shots through backward points, Tilak soon adjusted to tricky short balls around his hips, turning them into boundaries with well-timed swivels and pulls.
Batting at number four in the first two games against SA, Tilak initially faced difficulties but seized the opportunity at number three after Sanju Samson’s early dismissal. Describing the pitch as “two-paced,” he found a rhythm, executing several of his seven sixes behind square and with a stylish reverse lap over the wicketkeeper from a Coetzee knuckleball. In a powerful partnership with Abhishek Sharma, he scored 107 with strong flicks and a breezy strike rate of 221.48 against spin, improving his career stats significantly.
Despite his modest footwork—drawing comparisons to Shivam Dube—Tilak’s reach and wrist work enabled him to overcome challenges from Keshav Maharaj and Aiden Markram, who struggled to contain him. His 31-run blitz against spinners lifted his strike rate and showcased a newfound finesse in his approach to slower deliveries.
Tilak’s fearless confidence shone as he stepped up to bat at number three, a spot typically reserved for his captain, Suryakumar Yadav. Following the young batter’s century, Suryakumar confirmed Tilak’s promotion for upcoming games, revealing, “He asked for it, he delivered.”
Tilak Varma’s ability to deliver under pressure reflects his early experiences in high-stakes roles, such as opening for Hyderabad on his Ranji debut at just 16. His maturity, leadership, and technical growth position him as a promising addition to India’s top order—a player with skills and composure beyond his years.