The team management’s quest for a flexible batting order was highlighted on Saturday by Indian batsman Tilak Varma, who stated that most players are prepared to bat wherever depending on the circumstances of the game.
With a 1-1 draw ahead of Sunday’s third game in Dharamsala, the hosts want to take an advantage in the five-match Twenty20 International series against South Africa.
According to Tilak, flexibility has become a crucial prerequisite in the shortest format as India continues to experiment in the middle order in preparation for the T20 World Cup next year.
“Everyone is flexible except the openers. I am up for batting at 3, 4, 5 or 6 — wherever the team prefers for me. If the team feels a particular move is tactically best, everyone goes with the team,” Tilak said during the pre-match press conference.
Tilak claimed that these choices are situation-based rather than role-driven, drawing comparisons with recent examples.
“One-off games keep happening. Axar Patel has already done the same thing and he did well there. It depends on the situation,” he gave instances of comparable duties being performed well in recent international competitions.
The 23-year-old gave an explanation of the circumstances in Dharamsala, stating that despite the cold, the surface might still favor batters.
“I have played an Under-19 India series here before. We are watching the wicket and I feel it will be a high-scoring one,” he said.
He did, however, issue a warning that bowlers might benefit from low temperatures early on.
Tilak stated that India is mentally ready for the battle, even though dew is anticipated to play a part when the game starts at 7 p.m.
“We don’t have the toss in our hands. We are preparing for the dew and have practised with a slightly wet ball,” he said.
In response to worries about playing in unfamiliar cold weather, Tilak stated that mental toughness is essential.
“It’s very cold here, but we are prepared mentally and physically. Those who are mentally strong succeed everywhere,” he said.
Moving up or down the batting order has no effect on Tilak’s preparation, he continued.
“We follow the basics in practice. I always think about what I can do for the team,” he said.
Tilak believed that batting first or second might not have much of an impact, negating the toss factor.
“In the first two matches, the team batting first won because there was some seam and swing in the cold. Overall, there isn’t much difference as dew comes in early,” he said.
The left-hander expressed confidence in India’s strategy, stating that the team would adhere to their attacking template.
“We will play with the same intent we have shown in the last 15-20 matches. We are confident of winning the series,” he said.
