India's newly-appointed T20I vice-captain Tilak Varma has received a timely reminder that leadership responsibilities do not automatically guarantee a permanent place in the national side. Former India batter Mohammad Kaif has cautioned the young left-hander against becoming complacent despite his recent elevation in the team's leadership group.
Tilak was named India's vice-captain following a major overhaul in the T20I setup. Shreyas Iyer replaced Suryakumar Yadav as captain, while Axar Patel also made way for the 23-year-old in the leadership hierarchy. Although the appointment marks a significant milestone in Tilak's career, Kaif believes it comes with equally high expectations.
Mohammad Kaif sends strong message to Tilak
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Kaif stressed that India's current selection policy leaves no room for complacency, regardless of a player's leadership role.
"Being vice-captain doesn't mean Tilak Varma's place in the team is guaranteed. If he wants to keep playing, he'll have to maintain his form."
Kaif pointed to recent examples within the Indian setup to support his argument. Shubman Gill previously served as India's T20I vice-captain before losing his place in the format, while Axar Patel was replaced during the latest leadership reshuffle despite holding the same position.
According to the former Indian batter, these examples underline the team's merit-based approach, where consistent performances remain the only criterion for selection.
Leadership role comes with added responsibility
Tilak's promotion follows an impressive run in international cricket, with the left-handed batter establishing himself as one of India's brightest young talents in the shortest format. His elevation to vice-captain also reflects the selectors' faith in his long-term leadership potential.
However, Kaif believes that the current team management has created an environment where every player must continue to earn their place.
He noted that no position in the side is secure and that performances are evaluated after every match, making consistency more important than leadership status.
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With India entering a new phase under Shreyas Iyer's captaincy, Tilak Varma will now have the added responsibility of balancing leadership duties while ensuring his performances continue to justify his place in the playing XI. As India begin a fresh T20I cycle, the youngster will be keen to cement both his batting role and his position in the team's leadership group.