Wasim Jaffer says Tilak Varma can replace Kohli at No. 3 in ODIs
Wasim Jaffer named Tilak Varma as the ideal replacement for Virat Kohli at No. 3 in ODIs after Kohli retires following the 2027 World Cup.
Former India cricketer Wasim Jaffer said Tilak Varma is the right batter to replace Virat Kohli at No. 3 in the ODI batting order once Kohli retires after the 2027 World Cup. Jaffer pointed to Varma's first-class average of around 55 and his ability to bat in different positions.
Jaffer said Varma has already shown he can bat at No. 3 and has adapted to the middle order without difficulty. He added that India will need a left-handed batter in that spot when Kohli and Rohit Sharma leave the side.
Jaffer also noted that Abhishek Sharma has matured in his approach and no longer tries to hit a six on the first ball. Kohli confirmed the 2027 World Cup will be his last and said he wants to leave everything on the field.
CricHubb Take
Jaffer's choice of Varma over more obvious candidates like Gill or Ishan Kishan shows selectors may already be thinking about left-hand balance rather than pure batting order continuity.