Tilak Varma has received one of the biggest opportunities of his career after being appointed India’s new T20I vice captain. The promotion reflects the selectors’ confidence in the 23-year-old. However, former India batter Mohammad Kaif believes the role does not guarantee a permanent place in the team.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Kaif said no player in the current Indian team has a secured spot. He explained that even the vice captain can be dropped if performances fail to meet expectations.
Kaif pointed to recent examples to support his view. Axar Patel previously served as India’s vice captain but no longer holds the position. Shubman Gill also lost the vice captaincy in T20Is after missing out on a place in the squad.
According to Kaif, Tilak must continue scoring runs and delivering consistent performances in every match. He said the vice captaincy should not make any player feel comfortable because the selectors are willing to make changes whenever required.
Kaif added that this is the approach followed by the current Indian team management. Every player must earn their place repeatedly, whether they are a senior player, vice captain or even the captain.
Tilak has earned a major leadership role at just 23 years of age. However, the challenge now is to maintain his form and justify the faith shown in him. As Kaif stressed, leadership brings recognition, but only consistent performances can secure a place in India’s playing XI.
