Mohammed Kaif Urges Tilak Varma to Play ‘Virat Kohli Role’ Amid T20 World Cup Struggles

Former India cricketer Mohammed Kaif has urged young batter Tilak Varma to stay true to his natural game and play the anchoring role in India’s T20I lineup, as the left-hander continues to struggle for runs in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026.

Tilak has scored 107 runs in five matches at a strike rate of 118 during the tournament. While his role has been to stabilise the innings, his attempt to accelerate during the Super 8 clash against South Africa led to another early dismissal.

Pressure to increase strike rate affects approach

During the match, Tilak attempted an aggressive shot against Marco Jansen and edged the ball to Quinton de Kock behind the stumps. The dismissal drew criticism from Sunil Gavaskar, who questioned the shift in approach.

Kaif echoed similar views, stating that the pressure to increase strike rate may have influenced Tilak’s decision-making.

He emphasised that team management must reassure the batter about his role so he can avoid reacting to external criticism.

“Play the Virat Kohli role”

Kaif advised Tilak to emulate the anchoring role often played by Virat Kohli in T20 cricket — building the innings, absorbing pressure, and guiding chases.

According to Kaif, Tilak moved away from his natural style by attempting risky shots under pressure.

He stressed that players cannot perform effectively if they constantly react to public opinion and commentary.

Importance of taking the innings deep

Kaif highlighted India’s strong batting lineup filled with attacking players, making an anchor crucial for balance.

India’s lineup includes aggressive hitters capable of accelerating the scoring rate, but a stabilising presence ensures the team can build successful chases.

He noted that to become a reliable finisher, a batter must first remain at the crease until the later stages of the innings.

Must-win match ahead for India

Tilak is expected to feature in India’s crucial upcoming clash against Zimbabwe in Chennai. With knockout qualification scenarios tightening, the team will be looking for stability in the middle order.

A composed innings from Tilak could help India regain balance and strengthen their campaign as the tournament reaches its decisive phase.