In a pulsating encounter on January 25, 2025, India edged out England by two wickets in the second T20 International of the five-match series at Chennai’s MA Chidambaram Stadium. The victory gave India a commanding 2-0 lead, but it was Tilak Varma’s stellar performance with the bat that stole the show. England captain Jos Buttler, gracious in defeat, lauded the young batter, stating, “All credit goes to Tilak Varma for getting India over the line.”
Batting first, England had set a challenging total of 166. Jos Buttler led the way with a brisk 45, while Jamie Smith, in his debut innings, batted very composed and added to the team’s score. Brydon Carse’s late flourish added some important runs in the death overs and gave England a competitive score to defend. The Indian bowlers, especially Varun Chakravarthy and Axar Patel, ensured that the opposing team was in check with well-disciplined spells.
Chasing 166, India encountered early blows with the top order crumbling under pressure from England’s pace attack led by Jofra Archer. A precarious chase of India’s middle order seemed likely, but here was Tilak Varma at the end – mature beyond his years, poise anchoring innings.
Varma’s pressure was a lesson in handling that he played a good, unbeaten 72 off 55 balls, rotating strike perfectly, scoring crucial boundaries and putting together sensible partnerships with the tail. One defining moment of his innings came during the 16th over where he unleashed calculated shots to relieve mounting pressure; such calm demeanour and understanding of the situation to read games became invaluable to the cause for India as it neared its target.
England’s bowlers, mainly through Carse and Rashid, fought their way back into this game but not enough to come out victorious on the field from Varma, who didn’t give in despite the pressure. India found themselves requiring just seven runs on the last over while Tilak went on to drive his team toward victory with four deliveries remaining.
Post-match, Jos Buttler applauded the fighting spirit of his team but reserved special mention for Tilak Varma’s winning knock. “We created chances and pushed them close, but Tilak’s innings was the difference,” said Buttler. His acknowledgment to the now world-capped Varma spoke much of the respect his talent earned on the global stage.
Tilak Varma’s performance not only won the match but also marked his growing stature in international cricket. As India heads into the third T20I, the young star’s confidence and form will be crucial in maintaining their dominance in the series.