''Sarpanch' sahab should be picked automatically': Aakash Chopra backs Shreyas Iyer after Tilak Varma injury

NEW DELHI: Former India opener Aakash Chopra has made a strong case for Shreyas Iyer's immediate inclusion in the T20I squad, insisting the middle-order batter should be the “automatic” replacement for Tilak Varma, who has been ruled out of the opening matches of the series against New Zealand due to an abdominal injury.

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Tilak's absence has opened up a key slot in India's middle order ahead of a packed white-ball calendar and the T20 World Cup, which begins on February 7. With India in need of stability and experience in the middle order, Chopra believes the selectors need not look too far.




“Who can it be? Shreyas Iyer. ‘Sarpanch' sahab should be picked automatically,” Chopra said on X. “He is already playing well and scored in the Vijay Hazare Trophy too. Even when Iyer was not picked in the Asia Cup, it felt slightly unfair, but it was understandable. But there is an opportunity for a middle-order role here. He is also an experienced player and set the IPL on fire. He fits the bill, and Shreyas Iyer gets my vote.”

Backing his argument further, Chopra pointed out that India do not require additional openers. “India does not need an opener. So no Ruturaj Gaikwad, Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill. India need a middle-order batter,” he said, underlining why Iyer stands out as the most logical choice.


Chopra did acknowledge alternative options but placed them firmly behind Iyer. “Riyan Parag could also be one candidate. He was part of the T20I side before and can also bowl. If India is looking for a multi-skilled player, Parag could be that guy,” Chopra said. “But my vote is for Shreyas Iyer. I would place Parag at No.2.” Jitesh Sharma, he added, might have an outside chance, though India “do not need three wicketkeepers” in the squad.

Meanwhile, the BCCI has confirmed that Tilak Varma underwent surgery for an abdominal issue in Rajkot on Wednesday, January 7. He was discharged from hospital on Thursday morning and is scheduled to fly back to Hyderabad on Friday. The board said the batter is currently stable and progressing well.


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