Is Tilak Varma Missing the NZ T20Is After Emergency Surgery?
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Synopsis
In a shocking turn of events, Indian batter Tilak Varma has undergone emergency surgery in Rajkot, casting doubt on his participation in the upcoming T20 series against New Zealand. This article delves into the circumstances surrounding his surgery, recovery timeline, and implications for the Indian cricket team.
Key Takeaways
- Tilak Varma underwent emergency surgery in Rajkot.
- His absence could impact the Indian team in the upcoming T20I series.
- Recovery from such surgeries typically takes about a month.
- Updates on his availability for the T20 World Cup will follow in the next few days.
- Potential replacements for Varma include Shreyas Iyer.
New Delhi, Jan 8 (NationPress) Indian cricketer Tilak Varma has undergone an urgent surgical procedure in Rajkot and is expected to be absent from the forthcoming five T20 internationals against New Zealand, as per sources close to the situation, reported by IANS on Thursday.
The 23-year-old Varma experienced severe abdominal discomfort after eating breakfast on Wednesday, just a day prior to Hyderabad's final match in the Vijay Hazare Trophy against Jammu and Kashmir at the Niranjan Shah Stadium Ground C.
He was rushed to the hospital, where diagnostic scans revealed the need for an emergency operation. After consulting with the medical team at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru, Varma underwent surgery and is reported to be recovering well.
“It was a critical situation necessitating immediate surgery, given the level of pain he was experiencing. Fortunately, the operation was successful on Wednesday evening at a specialized hospital in Rajkot. If everything proceeds smoothly, he may be discharged soon. A clearer picture regarding his availability for next month's T20 World Cup will emerge in the next couple of days,” insiders revealed.
An expert in sports medicine, speaking on the condition of anonymity, informed IANS that typically recovery from such emergency surgeries can take up to a month for athletes. “The recovery period can vary based on the extent of tissue damage. Pain is a significant concern in these emergency cases since the operation involves highly sensitive areas where complications can arise,” the specialist noted.
This injury raises doubts about Varma's participation in the T20 World Cup, which is set to commence on February 7. India will kick off their campaign against the USA on that day at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.
Varma has played a pivotal role in India's T20I lineup, accumulating 1,183 runs in 37 innings with an impressive average of 49.29 and a strike rate of 144.09. He has recorded two centuries and six half-centuries in this format. His absence could lead India captain Suryakumar Yadav to bat at the number three position.
As of now, the BCCI has not announced a replacement for Varma in the five-match series against New Zealand, which is scheduled to start on January 21 in Nagpur. It is believed that Varma’s setback might open the opportunity for players like Shreyas Iyer to participate in the T20Is against New Zealand.
Point of View
It’s essential to approach this situation with empathy and understanding. Tilak Varma's health is paramount, and while his absence raises concerns for the team's performance, the focus should remain on his recovery and well-being first.
NationPress
11/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the reason for Tilak Varma's surgery?
Tilak Varma underwent surgery due to severe abdominal pain that necessitated emergency medical intervention.
How long is the recovery period expected to be?
Typically, recovery from such emergency surgeries can take up to one month, depending on the extent of tissue damage.
Will Tilak Varma play in the T20 World Cup?
His participation in the T20 World Cup remains uncertain, and updates on his status are expected in the coming days.
Who could replace Varma in the T20I series?
Shreyas Iyer is among the contenders who may step in for Tilak Varma during the T20I series against New Zealand.
When does the T20 series against New Zealand begin?
The T20 series against New Zealand is set to start on January 21 in Nagpur.
