![Shreyas Iyer tipped to replace Tilak Varma [Source: @vivek23mishra, @CricketExpert24/X.com]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1767956031530_ShreyasIyertippedtoreplaceTilakVarma[Source@vivek23mishra,@CricketExpert24X.com].jpg?type=hq)
Shreyas Iyer tipped to replace Tilak Varma [Source: @vivek23mishra, @CricketExpert24/X.com]
India’s middle-order plans have been shaken after Tilak Varma was ruled out of the opening three matches of the T20I series against New Zealand due to an abdominal injury.
With the T20 World Cup less than a month away, the team management is under pressure to find a reliable replacement quickly. Former India opener Aakash Chopra, meanwhile, has made his choice clear.
Aakash Chopra’s strong vote for Shreyas Iyer
On social media, Aakash Chopra strongly backed Shreyas Iyer, calling him the automatic pick for the vacant slot for Tilak Varma. He believes India does not need more openers.
But instead requires an experienced middle-order batter who can handle pressure. Chopra also pointed out that Iyer is already in good form and recently scored runs in the Vijay Hazare Trophy.
“Who can it be? Shreyas Iyer. ‘Sarpanch' sahab should be picked automatically. He is already playing well and scored in the Vijay Hazare Trophy too. Even when Iyer was not picked in the Asia Cup, it felt slightly unfair, but it was understandable," Chopra said.
Not only that, but the former cricketer also mentioned that even when Shreyas Iyer was left out of the Asia Cup squad earlier, it felt slightly unfair. According to him, this is now the perfect opportunity to bring him back into the T20I setup.
"But there is an opportunity for a middle-order role here. He is also an experienced player and set the IPL on fire. He fits the bill, and Shreyas Iyer gets my vote," he added.
Why India need a middle-order batter, not an opener
Aakash Chopra was clear that India does not need to look at openers to fill Tilak’s spot. He said players like Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, and Ruturaj Gaikwad are already there at the top.
This is where Iyer fits perfectly. He believes that Iyer’s ability to play spin, rotate strike, and build partnerships makes him ideal for the No. 3 or No. 4 position.
“India does not need an opener. So no Ruturaj Gaikwad, Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill. India need a middle-order batter."
With the T20 World Cup approaching, Chopra feels stability is more important than experimenting with new faces. He wants the selectors to go with experience rather than risk.
Other options, while Iyer still leads the race
While Aakash Chopra backed Shreyas Iyer strongly, he did mention a few other names. Riyan Parag was named as another possible option.
Chopra said Parag can also bowl, which gives him an extra edge. However, he clearly placed Parag as his second choice.
"Riyan Parag could also be one candidate. He was part of the T20I side before and can also bowl. If India is looking for a multi-skilled player, Parag could be that guy. But my vote is for Shreyas Iyer. I would place Parag at No.2.”
Jitesh Sharma was also mentioned, but Chopra felt India does not need three wicketkeepers in the squad. That makes Jitesh a less likely pick.
Meanwhile, the BCCI has confirmed that Tilak Varma underwent surgery in Rajkot and is recovering well. He has been discharged from the hospital and will return to Hyderabad soon. But with his immediate availability uncertain, the focus is firmly on who steps in.
