January 10 2026 – A former India opening Aakash Chopra has opened up about a significant change in the Indian cricket team following the news that the rising international star Tilak Varma was forced to withdraw from some of the T20I game with New Zealand due to an injury. Chopra believes that experienced batsman Shreyas Iyer will be guaranteed a spot in the XI to fill in the gap.
Tilak Varma Disqualified After Surgery
Tilak Varma was forced to withdraw from the three initial T20 internationals in the series against New Zealand after suffering an abdominal injury which required surgery. He was treated by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed that he’ll be absent from the first three matches while recuperating. His absence leaves a critical middle-order position vacant just ahead of 2026’s Twenty20 World Cup 2026.
Chopra Backs Shreyas Iyer Loudly
When discussing the replacement for Varma, Aakash Chopra made his opinions crystal clear. He stated that Shreyas Iyer — whom the fans frequently refer to as “Sarpanch sahab” affectionately is the one to be selected immediately without hesitation. Chopra said that Iyer is in great shape and is sporting a good record in both domestic matches as well as in his participation in Indian Premier League (IPL).
Chopra added the time the time Iyer was not chosen to play in the Asia Cup, many felt that it was unfair, even though the choice was logical back then. However, now with Tilak out the middle order requires stability and knowledge. Shreyas is the perfect candidate for that, Chopra added.
Other Options Are Discussed As Well
Chopra’s preferred choice is Iyer He also suggested some other options. One of them is Riyan Parag who is a young multi-sport player from Assam who has the ability to bat as well as bowl. Another name mentioned is wicketkeeper/batter Jitesh Sharma as an option for the outside. However, Chopra said that the team doesn’t require an opener right now, but requires a solid middle-order bat and that point at Iyer.
Shreyas Iyer’s Formula and Comeback
Iyer is getting back to full fitness from an earlier injury and has been in excellent form in cricket at home lately. He scored a great score during the Vijay Hazare Trophy showing he’s a good candidate to compete for more prestigious awards once again. This is a strong argument in his favour to be part of the country’s T20 team.
What Does This Mean for India
India will begin their T20I match with New Zealand on January 21 2026. With Tilak not available as a player, the team’s management has to choose the best option to alter the lineup of batting. Many of the fans and experts are of the opinion that an veteran player like Shreyas Iyer could stabilize the middle line and provide confidence to the line-up of hitters.
If selectors will follow Chopra’s advice is yet to be determined, but the debate between cricket the cricket community and experts is already heating up in anticipation of New Zealand matches.
