India's young batter Tilak Varma has been ruled out of the first three games of the five-match T20I series against New Zealand, as the 23-year-old had undergone successful surgery after being diagnosed with Testicular Torsion. There are speculations on his participation in the T20 World Cup as will which will take place later this year in India and Sri Lanka. However, Hyderabad coach Ravi Teja has shared an update on Tilak’s injury and surgery, giving clarity on when he is likely to return.
What happened to Tilak Varma?
Tilak Varma, who played a crucial role for India in the Asia Cup 2025 final against Pakistan, was featuring in the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26. After a List A match between Hyderabad and Bengal, he suffered severe abdominal pain and was taken to a hospital in Rajkot. He underwent minor abdominal surgery on January 7 and was discharged the following morning. He is now set to return to Hyderabad.
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What did the coach say?
Hyderabad coach Ravi Teja told Cricbuzz, "He had a very minor surgery in Rajkot, and there is nothing serious or worrying. He should recover in three to four days. Tilak is currently with the team and will return to Hyderabad. I fully expect him to be fit before the T20 series against New Zealand; it will take him about a week to recover."
When can Tilak Varma return to the field?
Tilak had been in excellent form before his injury. The T20 series against New Zealand begins on January 21, with the third match scheduled for January 18 and the fourth on January 21. Tilak will likely to be fit to play by the fourth match of the series, and he is expected to be fully ready for the T20 World Cup 2026, which is scheduled to start from February 7 and will take place in India and Sri Lanka.