'It’s about time': Jaffer backs left-haned batter as Kohli's replacement at No.3
Former cricketer Wasim Jaffer has suggested that Tilak Varma should be groomed as the successor to Virat Kohli at the No. 3 batting position in India's ODI team. Jaffer cites Varma's versatility and strong first-class record as key reasons for his potential.
Why it matters
As India prepares for a transition in its top-order batting lineup, identifying long-term replacements for legends like Kohli is a major focus for cricket analysts.
Former India opener Wasim Jaffer believes Tilak Varma could be a suitable option to take over from Virat Kohli at No. 3 in India’s ODI batting order after the 2027 World Cup.Kohli has confirmed that the 2027 edition will be his last ODI World Cup for India, meaning the team will have to find a replacement at No. 3, a position he has held for many years. It will be a major vacancy in the top order, one that India has not had to address for around 15 years.Jaffer feels Tilak has the skills to take up the role, pointing to his ability to bat at different positions in T20Is and his record in first-class cricket.“It feels great to see his versatility. He previously scored a century at No. 3, and now he has adapted to the No. 5 and No. 6 positions so beautifully.
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