AB de Villiers Flags Selection Conundrum Over India Star Ahead Of Afghanistan T20Is: "Where Will He Play?"

AB de Villiers has raised questions over India batter Tilak Varma's place in the playing XI.© AFP

Former South Africa captain AB de Villiers has raised questions over India batter Tilak Varma's place in the playing XI for the upcoming three-match T20I series against Afghanistan. Speaking on his YouTube channel, de Villiers expressed doubts about Tilak's batting position, with the likes of Abhishek Sharma, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer appearing to be certain starters in the playing XI. The legendary batter was quick to point out that Tilak's selection or omission could have a significant impact on the balance of the team.

"There will definitely be some selection issues about the batters. Obviously, Shreyas, captain, Ishan Kishan, Samson, Sooryavanshi and then there are all-rounders, Tilak Varma; I think that is where the balance is quite tricky. Where will he bat?" said de Villiers.

De Villiers also shared his views on Team India's overall squad, saying that defining key roles would be for them against a dangerous Afghanistan side.

"Really, really strong squad, but the balance will be tricky to figure out. It's T20s, so they can play around with the squad a little bit. There are different roles, but the role clarification will still be incredibly important for India, as they are playing quite a dangerous team," he added.

Meanwhile, Afghanistan will host India in a historic T20I series, with all matches set to be played at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi.

There were doubts that the first game might be postponed, but the Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA) said that the match will go ahead as planned.

The DDCA said it held a meeting with Delhi Traffic Police and received assurances of all necessary support. There were earlier reports that the Delhi Police had sought postponement of the match.

"India-Afghanistan 1st T20I on September 13 at Arun Jaitley Stadium will go ahead as scheduled. Following a meeting with Delhi Traffic Police, DDCA has been assured of all necessary support and arrangements. No postponement," the DDCA said in a post on X.

India will host the BRICS Summit on September 12 and 13 in the national capital.

(With IANS Inputs)

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