Uthappa Backs Varma for 2026 T20 World Cup

Robin Uthappa urges selectors to keep Tilak Varma for the 2026 T20 World Cup, despite his injury. Explore Varma's form and potential replacements.

Robin Uthappa, a former India cricketer, has publicly urged the team management and selectors to ensure Tilak Varma remains a part of the main squad for the upcoming 2026 T20 World Cup. Varma is currently sidelined due to testicular surgery, with an expected recovery period of four to five weeks, making him doubtful for the T20I series against New Zealand starting on February 7.

Varma's potential absence for India's opening match against the USA on February 7 is noted, though he might return for subsequent group games, including the crucial encounter against Pakistan on February 15. Uthappa emphasized Varma's importance, drawing parallels to Australia's handling of Travis Head during the 2023 World Cup.

While acknowledging Devdutt Padikkal's outstanding performance in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, Uthappa suggested that selecting him might spark debate. He stated that selectors, the coach, and captain have a strategic plan, and external speculation is secondary to their decisions. Uthappa also listed other potential replacements, including Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rishabh Pant, Jitesh Sharma, and Ruturaj Gaikwad.

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