Surgery Likely, Recovery Could Take Up to a Month
The injury occurred while Tilak was representing Hyderabad in the Vijay Hazare Trophy in Rajkot. He reportedly experienced sharp pain after breakfast and was immediately taken for medical evaluation. Scans conducted locally were later reviewed by doctors at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence (COE) in Bengaluru.
Medical experts have advised surgery, which could keep him out of action for three to four weeks. As a result, his participation in the entire T20I series against New Zealand now appears highly unlikely.
World Cup Availability a Bigger Concern
While India may name a replacement for the T20Is, the team management is more concerned about Tilak’s availability for the T20 World Cup, scheduled to begin on February 7. India’s opening fixture is against the USA on the same day.
Who Replaces Tilak Varma?
Shubman Gill, despite being left out of the T20I squad and World Cup plans, is not expected to be recalled. Selectors are reportedly hesitant to bring back India’s Test and ODI captain only to have him sit out matches.
Assam all-rounder Riyan Parag could emerge as a strong contender, provided he fully recovers from his ongoing shoulder issue.
Shreyas Iyer Declared Fully Fit
In a positive update for India, Shreyas Iyer has been declared match-fit by the COE medical team. The Mumbai batter recently scored a fluent 82 off 53 balls in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, showing no signs of discomfort from his earlier spleen injury.
He is set to make his ODI comeback after last featuring against Australia at the SCG in August.
Hardik Pandya to Play Domestic Fixture
Hardik Pandya will represent Baroda in their final league match against Chandigarh. Though he smashed a commanding 133 in a previous game, he was rested from the New Zealand series to manage workload and due to bowling restrictions imposed by the COE.
