Shreyas Iyer becomes Tilak Varma’s replacement ahead of T20 World Cup 2026

India’s T20 plans took a slight hit just before the final preparations for the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup, and Akash Chopra think the answer is very simple. With Tilak Varma ruled out of start of upcoming five-match T20I series against New Zealand due to an abdominal injury, Chopra said the Men in Blue already had an “automatic” replacement.

Tilak Varma’s injury opens door as Aakash Chopra pushes Shreyas Iyer’s T20I return

The cricket pundit feels that India should bring Shreyas Iyer straight back into the T20I team without thinking about the upcoming T20I series against the Black Caps. Tilak’s injury has created a gap in the middle order at a time when the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 is around the corner.

Since Chopra feels this is not the time to experiment or change the batting order, saying the team already has enough openers and doesn’t need to push anyone new at the top, and Shreyas Iyer fits perfectly into the middle-order role.

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The former Indian batter further pointed out that Iyer is experienced, understands pressure situations and is already in good form. Notably, Iyer has already played 51 T20Is for India and scored over 1,100 runs, besides establishing himself as one of the best batters in the IPL.

It fits the bill and Shreyas Iyer gets my vote: Aakash Chopra

Aakash Chopra said in a video posted on the IPL It fits the bill, and Shreyas Iyer gets my vote.

Chopra also pointed out that players like Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal and Ruturaj Gaikwad are all openers, and that is not what the team needs at the moment. India needs someone who can settle the innings, control the middle overs and finish strong, and Chopra feels Iyer is the best choice.

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Chopra makes strong case for Iyer’s return

The commentator further explained, “India does not need an opener; she needs a middle-order hitter. » However, he admitted that there are other options available for the middle-order role, like Riyan Parag and Jitesh Sharmabut yet he will go with Iyer.

Chopra ended by saying, “Riyan Parag could also be a candidate. He was part of the T20I squad earlier and can bowl as well. If India is looking for an all-rounder, Parag could be that guy. But my vote is for Shreyas Iyer. I would put Parag at No. 2. Jitesh Sharma might get an outside chance, even though India doesn’t need three wicketkeepers.”

Notably, the BCCI confirmed that Tilak Varma underwent surgery for his abdominal problem in Rajkot on January 7. He was released the next day and is in stable condition. The star batter will return to Hyderabad on Friday (January 9).