Is Tilak Varma Joining India A for Warm-Up Matches Before the T20 World Cup?
Synopsis
With the T20 World Cup around the corner, Tilak Varma is making headlines as he gears up to represent India A in critical warm-up matches. His journey back from surgery and his inclusion in the squad could be pivotal for India's campaign. Fans eagerly await his performance as he prepares to join the senior team.
Key Takeaways
Tilak Varma is playing for India A in warm-up matches.
Matches are against the USA and Namibia .
Ayush Badoni is the captain of the squad.
Players are returning from injuries.
These matches are critical for T20 World Cup preparation.
New Delhi, Feb 2 (NationPress) The left-handed batsman Tilak Varma is set to represent India A in one of their two warm-up matches ahead of the Men's T20 World Cup, as announced by the BCCI on Monday. India A will compete against the USA and Namibia in warm-up matches in Navi Mumbai and Bengaluru on Monday and Friday, respectively.
Batting all-rounder Ayush Badoni has been named captain of the India A team, with Varma slated to play in one match before joining the senior squad. The 23-year-old has been receiving rehabilitation at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru following a lower abdominal surgery in Rajkot earlier this month.
Initially, he was expected to join the Indian team for the last two T20Is against New Zealand, but he was not included to ensure his availability for the World Cup. His selection follows participation in a simulation match at the CoE last Friday.
The squad comprises experienced players like Riyan Parag, Ravi Bishnoi, Khaleel Ahmed, and Mayank Yadav, along with Naman Dhir, Ashutosh Sharma, Priyansh Arya, Gurjapneet Singh, Vipraj Nigam, Manav Suthar, and Ashok Sharma. Wicketkeeping duties will be handled by N Jagadeesan and Urvil Patel.
These warm-up matches will also signify Mayank’s return to competitive cricket after recovering from a lower back stress fracture that sidelined him from the Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL 2025 and required surgery in Christchurch, New Zealand last year. Riyan has also returned after healing from a right shoulder injury at the CoE.
Reports from IANS on January 31 suggested that Badoni was set to lead India A, with Tilak, Mayank, and Riyan also likely to be included. It has been confirmed that M Venkatramanna will serve as head coach, while Vineet Saxena will be the batting coach and Avinash Khandelwal will handle fielding.
India A squad for the Men's T20 World Cup warm-up matches: Ayush Badoni (c), Naman Dhir, Ashutosh Sharma, Priyansh Arya, N Jagadeesan (wk), Tilak Varma, Riyan Parag, Manav Suthar, Ashok Sharma, Urvil Patel (wk), Gurjapneet Singh, Vipraj Nigam, Ravi Bishnoi, Khaleel Ahmed, and Mayank Yadav.
Point of View
I believe that Tilak Varma's inclusion in the India A squad is a strategic move by the BCCI. His recovery from surgery and subsequent performance could significantly impact India's T20 World Cup ambitions. With seasoned players in the mix, this warm-up phase is crucial for building team synergy ahead of the main event.
NationPress
12 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the warm-up matches?
The warm-up matches are crucial for team preparation and player assessment ahead of the Men's T20 World Cup.
Which teams will India A face in the warm-up matches?
India A will face the USA and Namibia in their warm-up matches.
Who is the captain of India A?
Ayush Badoni has been appointed as the captain of the India A team for the warm-up matches.
What was Tilak Varma's recent medical procedure?
Tilak Varma underwent lower abdominal surgery earlier this month and has been rehabilitating at the BCCI Centre of Excellence.
