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India considers Tilak Varma as backup for 2027 ODI World Cup

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 30, 2026, 9:41 AM

Last updated Aug 30, 2026

India considers Tilak Varma as backup for 2027 ODI World Cup

Summary

Tilak Varma is being considered for India's middle-order spot ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup, sparking fan debate about the exclusion of Ruturaj Gaikwad. Reports indicate selectors see Varma's left-handed batting and part-time off-spin as valuable options. Gaikwad, previously used at No. 4, has not played since scoring a century against South Africa last year. The team management, citing concerns over injuries and the need for younger players, is re-evaluating its composition in preparation for conditions in South Africa. Selectors are also prioritizing a backup wicketkeeper for the upcoming West Indies series.

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By the Numbers

•Tilak Varma is emerging as a middle-order backup for the 2027 World Cup.
•Fans question the decision to overlook Ruturaj Gaikwad, who scored a century last year.
•Selectors seek a left-handed option to balance the batting order.
•Injuries to players like Shreyas Iyer prompt a reassessment of depth.
•A backup wicketkeeper is a priority for the upcoming West Indies series.

Latest Updates

9:41 AMYahoo Sports — 'What happened to Ruturaj Gaikwad': Fans react to Tilak Varma being considered as back-up option in India middle-order for 2027 ODI World Cup

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