Former India coach Abhishek Nayar praised Tilak Varma for his match-winning knock in the Asia Cup 2025 final against Pakistan. He remarked that it almost felt as if Tilak was responding to the commentators, striking a boundary exactly when they mentioned the need for one.
In the title clash at Dubai on Sunday, September 28, India bundled out Pakistan for 146 after opting to field. Chasing the target, Tilak anchored the innings with an unbeaten 69 off 53 balls, guiding India to a five-wicket victory with two deliveries remaining. Speaking on Sony Sports, Nayar commended the youngster for the way he timed and structured his innings.
“The best thing was that it’s not like he was playing an anchor’s role only. At the right time, we were also discussing that a six or a four should be hit now, and at that time, he was listening to us and playing,” he said.
The former India all-rounder also said that the youngster performed exceptionally well under pressure on a tricky pitch, calling it an extraordinary innings.
“It was a big game. There was pressure and for the first time in this tournament, India were behind after six overs. So to make a comeback from there on a slow-turning pitch, targeting the right overs, I think it’s an unbelievable knock,” Nayar observed.
“Tilak Varma Needed to Stay Till the End to Secure India’s Asia Cup Win”- Sehwag
In the same conversation, former India opener Virender Sehwag commended Tilak Varma and Sanju Samson for forming a vital partnership, highlighting Tilak in particular for remaining at the crease until the finish.
“India were behind for sure. Three players had gotten out in the powerplay. However, it seemed like India could make a comeback after Tilak and Samson’s partnership. We were discussing in commentary that Tilak Varma had to stay till the end if India had to win this Asia Cup final, and he did that only,” he said.
The former India captain further lauded Tilak for his composed and steady approach.
“You rarely get to see such knocks. It was a big game, a final against Pakistan, and one batter played till the end and won the match. He played extremely cool and calm cricket. He played shots that were in his radar. He didn’t take any undue risk,” Sehwag elaborated.
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