'Should play Virat Kohli's role': India batter asked to 'become a chase master' amid T20 World Cup criticism
Times of India
by TOI SPORTS DESKFebruary 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Former India cricketer Mohammed Kaif has offered valuable advice to Tilak Varma ahead of India's crucial match against Zimbabwe in the T20 World Cup. Kaif urged the young batter to ignore external criticism and stick to his natural game, emphasizing the importance of playing a anchoring role for the team, similar to Virat Kohli's influence during his career.
Tilak has faced challenges in the tournament, scoring 107 runs in five matches with a modest strike rate. Kaif highlighted that Tilak attempted to change his aggressive approach against South Africa but got out while playing a big shot, which he attributed to pressure over his strike rate. The former cricketer stressed that players must focus on their role rather than being swayed by external pressures.
Kaif explained that India already has several aggressive batters like Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan, and Hardik Pandya, who take the game deep. He emphasized the need for at least one player to stay till the end of the innings to guide the team through crucial moments. This strategy, he said, is essential for becoming a "chase master" and ensuring the team's success in high-pressure situations.
The advice underscores the importance of role clarity in cricketing teams, particularly in fast-paced tournaments like the T20 World Cup. For readers interested in global cricket strategies, this insight into managing player roles and handling criticism is crucial. Kaif's comments highlight the psychological aspect of sports, where maintaining focus and confidence under pressure can make a significant difference.
This perspective matters as it offers insights into how Indian cricket management might adapt their approach to leverage their players' strengths effectively. With matches against Zimbabwe on the horizon, Tilak's ability to stick to his game will be closely watched, reflecting the broader strategies in Indian cricket's quest for success in international tournaments.
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/24/2026