India’s preparations for a crucial five-match T20 International series against New Zealand and the forthcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 have been dealt a significant setback with star middle-order batter Tilak Varma ruled out of the T20Is due to injury.
Varma was forced to undergo surgery earlier this week following severe abdominal/groin pain, ruling him out of the home T20I series that begins on January 21. Medical assessments suggest a multi-week recovery period, leaving his availability for the T20 World Cup, starting February 7, uncertain. CricTracker+1
The 23-year-old, a standout performer in recent India T20 fixtures and the Asia Cup, had been earmarked as a key No. 3 batter — a role now up for strategic reshuffling in his absence. SportsTak
Amid the fallout from Varma’s injury, selectors and fans alike have speculated over the future batting lineup, with attention turning once again to Shubman Gill.
Gill, previously omitted from India’s initial T20 World Cup squad due to form concerns and fitness management, has recently regained fitness and has been captaining the ODI side. Reuters
Although there has been no official word from the BCCI confirming Gill’s inclusion in the T20 World Cup squad as a direct replacement for Varma, discussion in cricketing circles suggests he is a strong contender for recall — especially given his experience and ability to stabilize India’s top order if called upon. SportsTak
Selectors face a strategic dilemma: whether to stick with the current T20 mix and promote existing squad members into enhanced roles, or to revisit Gill’s place in the squad to bolster India’s batting firepower as they head into the marquee tournament.
What comes next:
• India’s selection committee is expected to meet soon to finalize adjustments to both the T20I and World Cup squads.
• With just weeks to go before the World Cup, India will hope that Varma’s recovery accelerates and that any changes strengthen their chances in an extremely competitive global event.
