Duleep Trophy: Played A Lot Of White-ball Cricket, But Red Ball Remains My Favourite Format, Says Tilak

Tilak's Red Ball Dream: Century Eludes, But Passion Burns Bright

Bengaluru (Wed): Lefthanded batter Tilak Varma nearly added a ninth first-class ton to his name, but cricket pulled its usual trick. Chasing that elusive 100 in the Duleep Trophy semifinal, he was caught-and-bowled on 99 off 211 balls—missing the mark by a whisker as South Zone folded for 336 against East Zone's towering 708.

A Red Ball Devotee at Heart

Despite plenty of whiteball cricket for India, Tilak keeps his affection firmly with the red ball. "Playing redball for India is my biggest goal... It's my A game," he told reporters after day four. His domestic form has been electric—116*, 51*, and now this 99—all evidence that the longest format is where he truly thrives.

Captaincy Fast-Tracking His Growth

Leading South Zone (after captaining India A), Tilak credits leadership for maturing his game. "Understanding your players off the field tells you who steps up under pressure," he shared—wisdom from a young leader already carrying big responsibilities.

The Professional in Him

Even after that heartbreak on 99, his mindset was immaculate. "Scoring a hundred or being not out doesn't matter to me. I was only focused on what the team needed." That selflessness—taking it session-by-session, prioritizing a potential draw over personal glory—is exactly the temperament you want in a future India Test bat.

As for the whiteball jump? Two days of practice, he says, is plenty to switch the mindset. Confident, focused, and hungry. This is a player to watch.

Source: Cricketnmore