India batter Tilak Varma says he naturally gravitates toward the longer formats and has been seeking guidance from Virat Kohli on fitness and running between the wickets as he aims to make the most of his growing opportunities.
The 23-year-old, who has played only four ODIs so far and is yet to debut in Tests, shared that having senior players like Kohli and Rohit Sharma in the current ODI squad has given him a major boost in confidence.
“ODI and Test cricket feel like my game because I really enjoy the longer format. I’m excited to play more ODIs as well. When Rohit bhai and Virat bhai are in the same team, the confidence level is completely different,” Varma said on JioStar. “They have so much experience, and I try to take as much advice from them as possible.”
Varma revealed he has been especially focused on learning from Kohli’s fitness standards and intensity between the wickets—an area he personally enjoys and wants to excel in.
“I talk to Virat bhai a lot, especially about fitness and running between the wickets. His intensity is incredible. I love running, and I feel I’m pretty quick, so that part of the game really excites me,” he said. “If we play together, running with him is something I’m really looking forward to.”
Speaking about the ongoing South Africa series, Varma added: “Whatever chances I get, I want to finish games for the team. I want to prove myself in ODIs and Tests. I’m pushing myself to perform in the longer formats and grow as a player.”
(By PTI Inputs)
