‘Where Is the Consistency?’ Srikkanth Questions Tilak Varma’s Spot, Pushes Rajat Patidar for India T20I Return

Former India captain Krishnamachari Srikkanth has once again stirred the debate over India’s T20I team selection by questioning Tilak Varma’s place in the side and backing Rajat Patidar for a national comeback.

The outspoken former opener has repeatedly expressed concerns over Tilak’s performances in recent months and believes the left-handed batter has not done enough to justify his continued place in India’s T20I setup.

Srikkanth questions Tilak’s consistency

Reacting to India’s ongoing T20I series against Zimbabwe, Srikkanth said consistency should remain one of the biggest criteria for national selection.

The former chief selector questioned whether Tilak Varma had delivered enough match-winning performances on a regular basis, arguing that players should be judged on sustained performances rather than potential alone.

Srikkanth had earlier criticised Tilak’s batting during India’s challenging tour of the United Kingdom and has continued to raise similar concerns throughout the Zimbabwe series.

Strong backing for Rajat Patidar

While questioning Tilak’s selection, Srikkanth made a strong case for Rajat Patidar, insisting the right-handed batter deserves another opportunity in India’s T20I squad.

Patidar has impressed with his performances in domestic cricket and franchise leagues, earning praise for his ability to score quickly while maintaining composure under pressure.

According to Srikkanth, rewarding consistent performers is essential if India want to build a competitive squad for future ICC tournaments.

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Selection debate gathers pace

India’s T20I squad has undergone significant changes following the 2026 T20 World Cup, with the selectors focusing on building a core group for the next international cycle.

The competition for middle-order batting spots has become increasingly intense, with several players pushing for opportunities through strong domestic and franchise performances.

This has naturally led to discussions over whether current squad members have done enough to retain their places.

Healthy competition for Team India

With emerging talents continuing to impress across domestic cricket, the selection committee faces difficult decisions ahead of every series.

While Tilak Varma remains one of India’s promising young batters, voices like Krishnamachari Srikkanth believe performances must remain the deciding factor.

At the same time, Rajat Patidar’s consistent run-scoring has strengthened calls for his return to the national side, ensuring that competition for places remains as fierce as ever.

As India continue to shape their squad for future global events, the debate surrounding the middle order is unlikely to fade anytime soon.