Suresh Raina drew a comparison between Tilak Varma and the middle-order batting legacy of MS Dhoni and Yuvraj Singh following India's thrilling chase in the second T20I against New Zealand at Hagley Oval in Christchurch on October 24, 2026. The former India batter highlighted how Varma's approach and mindset resembled the quality displayed by Dhoni and Yuvraj during their playing days in the lower middle order.
India faced a target of 181 runs in the match. With five overs remaining, the team still needed 68 runs to win. Tilak Varma and Nitish Kumar Reddy combined in an unbeaten partnership of 69 runs off just 30 balls to guide India to victory with one ball to spare, securing a 4-wicket win. Varma remained unbeaten on 51 off 26 balls and was named Player of the Match for his performance. Reddy scored 26 not out off 13 deliveries, playing a crucial role in the successful run chase after India had slipped to 71 for 6 wickets.
What did Raina say about Varma's quality?
Raina particularly impressed by Varma's skill in the middle order, recalled his own days batting alongside Yuvraj and Dhoni in positions 5, 6, 7 and 8, a period when the trio played with a special kind of fire and passion. The former cricketer told ANI that the young left-hander possessed the same quality and mindset that defined their era.
"No, India are doing really well at the moment. Take Tilak Varma, for instance. When Yuvi Pa (Yuvraj Singh), Dhoni bhai (MS Dhoni) and I used to bat at No. 5, 6, 7 and 8, we had a certain passion, and I feel Tilak has that same quality. He is a player with a different mindset and has done exceptionally well. He is contributing with the ball too," Raina said as quoted by The Cricket News.
How did Raina assess Reddy and the team's approach?
Raina moved on to praise Reddy, whose fearless batting during the chase stood out to the former batter. He noted that Reddy's approach and positive mindset reflected the kind of cricket India needed in the shortest format, particularly in high-pressure situations where quick runs were essential.
"Nitish is also batting differently, and it is good to see that positive mindset. It was also nice to see Bhuvneshwar make a comeback as well," Raina added.
Raina also offered kind words about captain Shreyas Iyer, saying the skipper's leadership style stands out in the shortest format. He explained that he had not seen a captain use this kind of approach in T20s for many years and wished Iyer the best as he builds his legacy.
"Shreyas Iyer has done well, but the way the captaincy is being handled, I think I have seen a captain with this kind of approach in this format after many years. He is building a different legacy, and my best wishes are with him," Raina added.
The victory gave India a 2-0 lead in the five-match series. The third T20I was scheduled for Wellington on October 27, with India looking to build further momentum in New Zealand.
