Tilak Varma has played some amazing knocks against Pakistan in T20I cricket.
Varma has been in prime form against Pakistan, be it his match-winning unbeaten fifty in the final of the 2025 T20 Asia Cup or, most recently, he played another brilliant knock in the Asian Games 2026 final, helping India clinch the gold medal.
Ahead of India's fourth T20I versus New Zealand at Eden Park in Auckland, Tilak was asked how much confidence his recent innings against Pakistan had given him when batting in the middle order.
“(Performance against) Pakistan was good before too,” he replied, with a hint of humor.
Tilak explained that when batting at No. 5 to 7, he often has limited opportunities, which makes it essential to deliver when the team needs him most.
“Whenever I go to bat at No. 5 to 7 in the lower order, I don't get much batting. And even if I get it, I get it under a lot of pressure. So, till now, whenever I get a chance, I try to win the game. I try to finish the game.
It's not like I was not scoring for 10 matches, and then I scored against Pakistan straightaway. It didn't happen like that. As it is said, I keep scoring. I remain focused on scoring runs for the team. I always want to help the team win,” Tilak added.
Tilak also gave credit to the encouraging environment and support within the Indian team for helping him stay focused on his role. Tilak has also earned a reputation for performing under pressure, with a remarkable record of staying unbeaten in successful T20 chases.
Nevertheless, the left-hander acknowledged that nerves never fully go away, no matter how much experience one has.
“I can't say 'stress.' There is always pressure and nerves. Till the last day of your cricket career, pressure will always be on you. But it has become a habit to manage it. Every individual has a different way. Some people breathe. Some talk a little more in between to settle those nerves. So, every individual is different. I also have my own way,” he added.
India, who has a 3- 0 lead in the ongoing T20I series, will clash with New Zealand in the 4th game of the series in Auckland on October 30. For India, Tilak's ability to absorb pressure and finish games could prove valuable as they look to maintain their momentum against New Zealand.
(ANI/PTI inputs)