Tilak underlines India's goals after sealing NZ T20I series

India middle-order batter Tilak Varma detailed the squad's collective hunger to seal a series whitewash in the ongoing five-match T20I series against New Zealand, his transition into a finisher role, and his calm approach under pressure in the closing overs.

With India leading the five-match series comfortably after victories in the opening three games, Tilak emphasised that complacency has no room in the dressing room as they eye a complete sweep.

"We are thinking this is a great opportunity to achieve a clean sweep. The next goal is to win the upcoming match and give the Indian crowd a great chance to witness a 5–0 series win," Tilak said before the fourth T20I.

He highlighted the strict cultural standards instilled by Head Coach Gautam Gambhir, stressing the importance of setting an example for future generations.

"At this level, we cannot make excuses. We are at the highest level, and we need to set standards for the youngsters who look up to us.

"Gautam sir made it clear in team meetings that this is a long tour and the standard we set as a T20 side will provide momentum for the ODI and Test squads."

Having built a reputation as a reliable top-order option, Tilak reflected on how his mindset has adapted to batting at number five or six.

"I already had the power game; I have scored runs at number three as well. Now, batting at number five or six, I think about going for a boundary off the very first ball only if it’s there to be hit.

"Otherwise, I focus on taking the game deep. I take a bit more time. Initially, I focus on singles and doubles, finding gaps for fours or two runs."

The young left-hander explained that handling crunch moments in the death overs is all about recognizing where the psychological advantage lies.

"In the end overs, as a batter, the bowler is under far more pressure than I am. That positive thought is constantly running in my head, that the bowler is under more pressure, so they are bound to leak runs."

Tilak also shed light on the conversations in the middle during tense run-chases, recalling a specific partnership plan with Nitish Kumar Reddy.

"I just told Nitish, ‘if we pull the match off from here, it’s going to be immense fun. Let’s just stay out there, take the game deep, and see what happens’."

Discussing his on-field responsibilities alongside skipper Shreyas Iyer, Tilak noted how shared communication has streamlined leadership duties on the pitch.

"As captain, it becomes tough to cover every single detail alone. So Iyer and I share concise communication; we discuss areas where I can assist him, and he asks for inputs too.

"Taking on those small roles on the field is something I'm enjoying, and this combination is delivering positive results."

Series schedule:

First T20I: 22 October, Christchurch (India won by four wickets)

Second T20I: 24 October, Christchurch (India won by four wickets)

Third T20I: 27 October, Wellington (India won by six wickets)

Fourth T20I: 30 October, Auckland

Fifth T20I: 1 November, Hamilton