Top 3 Replacements of Tilak Varma for IND vs NZ T20I Series 2026

The Indian cricket team suffered a huge blow ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026, starting on February 7. India's star batter Tilak Varma sustained an abdominal injury in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26. It is being reported that Tilak felt severe pain while having his breakfast, after which he was immediately taken to a local hospital for the required scans.

The reports that were sent to the BCCI Centre of Excellence signaled that the surgery would be needed for him to get fully fit. However, it will take around 3-4 weeks to fully recover, which means that the left-handed batter won't be able to take part in the upcoming 5-match T20I series against New Zealand. In addition to that, there is also a possibility of him missing the World Cup as well. But, currently, the main question is, who can replace him if he doesn't get fit on time?

Top 3 Replacements of Tilak Varma for IND vs NZ T20I Series 2026?

The IND vs NZ T20 2026 series will kick off on January 21, with the first match scheduled to take place in Nagpur. It's impossible for Tilak Varma to recover in two weeks, which confirms that he will miss the series, although there have been no official announcements made by the BCCI yet. Tilak Varma injury has opened the door for other players to get a spot in India's T20I squad. The three players who could replace Tilak Varma for India vs New Zealand T20I series are as follows:

1. Shreyas Iyer

Arguably one of the best ODI batsmen at the moment, Shreyas Iyer can prove to be an excellent inclusion for Tilak Varma for this series. Iyer has been in superb form recently as he announced himself with a blistering fifty on his Vijay Hazare comeback.

2. Ruturaj Gaikwad

Gaikwad might not be in India's T20I squad for a long time but can be Tilak Varma replacement for this match. The right-hander recently smashed his maiden ODI century and is a dependable batsman as well. Although Ruturaj Gaikwad is an opener, but plays the spin bowling equally well.

3. Dhruv Jurel

Jurel might be a wicketkeeper but can also play as a batter. Dhruv Jurel has been in excellent form with the bat during the Vijay Hazare Trophy recently. His batting form can make him Tilak's replacement for this series.

Tilak Varma's Recent Form

Over the last few months, Tilak Varma has established himself as a stable option in India's middle order. He is one of the best T20 batsmen in the world and played a key role in India's Asia Cup 2026 win where he played a memorable knock against Pakistan.

If he misses out on the T20 World Cup, it could be a big blow for Team India as they look to defend their crown at home. Tilak Varma's ability to play according to the situation makes him such a valuable player in India's T20I team.