NEW DELHI: India’s preparations for the T20I series against New Zealand have hit a minor roadblock with Tilak Varma being ruled out of the first three matches. The update was confirmed by the BCCI through a media advisory issued on January 8.

Recovery and rehabilitation plan

Tilak underwent surgery for an abdominal issue in Rajkot on January 7 and was discharged from hospital the next morning. He is stable and recovering well, with plans to fly back to Hyderabad on Friday. The batter will resume physical training gradually once his symptoms fully subside and wound healing is satisfactory.

As per the BCCI, Tilak will miss the first three T20Is against New Zealand. His participation in the remaining two matches will be assessed based on his progress during the return to training and skill based phases.

World Cup context and optimism

The update follows recent reassurance from Hyderabad coach DB Ravi Teja, who had earlier termed the issue minor. Tilak remains a key figure in India’s T20 plans and a vital member of the World Cup core.

Fans and the team management will be hoping for a swift recovery, with the bigger focus on having him fully fit for the ICC T20 World Cup.