Tilak Varma

Tilak Varma, born on 8 November 2002, is an Indian international cricketer known for his role as a left-handed batsman and part-time off-spin bowler. He made his international debut for India on 3 August 2023 against the West Indies. Representing Hyderabad in domestic cricket and the Mumbai Indians in the Indian Premier League (IPL), Varma has showcased his talent on various platforms.

Born into a Telugu-speaking family in Hyderabad, Varma developed a passion for cricket at a young age. Spotted by coach Salim Bayash while playing tennis ball cricket at the age of 11, Varma received training at the Legala Cricket Academy, Lingampally. Despite the long commute of over 40 km each way, Varma's dedication and talent earned him recognition. Beginning his educational journey at Crescent Model English School, Hyderabad, Varma later pursued his secondary education at Lepakshi Junior College. Currently, he is pursuing a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Andhra University.

Varma's domestic cricket career began with his first-class debut for Hyderabad in the 2018–19 Ranji Trophy. He made notable contributions, scoring 215 runs in seven matches with a strike rate of 147.26. His Twenty20 debut came in the 2018–19 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, followed by his List A debut in the 2019–20 Vijay Hazare Trophy, where he scored 180 runs in five games and took four wickets. Selected for India's squad in the 2020 Under-19 Cricket World Cup, Varma played six games but managed to score only 86 runs. He continued to impress in the 2021-22 Vijay Hazare Trophy, scoring 180 runs in five games and taking four wickets.

In the IPL, Varma was bought by the Mumbai Indians in the auction for the 2022 Indian Premier League tournament. Despite his base price being Rs. 20 lakh, he was purchased by Mumbai Indians for Rs. 1.7 crore. He showcased his talent early on, scoring a brisk 33-ball-61 against Rajasthan Royals. His notable performances continued in the 2023 IPL season, including an 84 off 46 balls against Royal Challengers Bangalore and a quickfire 43 off just 14 balls in the playoff match against Gujarat Titans.