'His comfort on the pitch stood out' - Wasim Jaffer praises Tilak Varma's debut innings against West Indies

20-year-old Indian cricketer Tilak Varma made a remarkable debut for the national team against West Indies on 3rd August 2023. The young batter showed no signs of nervousness, delivering an explosive performance, smashing 39 runs off a mere 22 balls, and showcasing his brilliance on the field with two impressive catches.

Wasim Jaffer, a former Indian cricketer, expressed his admiration for Varma's debut performance. Jaffer was all praises for Varma's mental fortitude and confidence in his abilities, remarking that the young cricketer appeared at ease, as though playing a club or state-level match, unfazed by the high-stakes international game.

"He displayed tremendous mental strength and composure. Varma's comfort on the pitch stood out, especially considering the circumstances," Jaffer lauded in an interview with ESPNCricinfo, ahead of the upcoming 2nd T20I match scheduled for 6th August.

Varma's batting prowess earned him further acclaim, with Jaffer commending the diversity and finesse of his shots during the innings.

"His shot selection was impressive, not just the big hits but also the deft slices through the third man and other delicate shots. It showcased his excellent form," Jaffer acknowledged.

Despite the praise, Jaffer expressed a hint of disappointment at Varma's missed opportunity to score a few more runs, which could have secured India a dominant position in the match. He also acknowledged Sanju Samson's unfortunate run-out as a contributing factor.

"Had Varma managed to add another 20-odd runs to his tally, India might have emerged victorious. Samson's run-out also proved costly. Nevertheless, Varma's potential is undeniable," Jaffer stated.

Varma's impressive debut has instilled hope and optimism in Indian cricket. Not only has he earned accolades from former cricketers like Jaffer, but also from his teammates, with Arshdeep Singh emphasizing his immense talent and success on his first international outing.

Varma's journey in cricket has been nothing short of extraordinary. From his debut for Hyderabad in the 2018-19 Ranji Trophy to representing Mumbai Indians in the IPL, his rise in the sport has been meteoric, culminating in a stellar debut for the national team.