Tilak Varma will be a part of the Indian Team for the Asia Cup 2023. With the injury issues surrounding the squad, it may not be a surprise if he makes it to the ODI World Cup squad, as well. If not the squad, he will at least be a part of the standby list. Hence, the selectors will have to name a replacement for him in the Asian Games squad. There is already a standby list from which the replacements can be selected. Here, we look at two players who might replace Tilak Varma for the Asian Games if he gets selected for the 2023 ODI World Cup.
1) Deepak Hooda
It is unfortunate that after a bad IPL season, Deepak Hooda has lost his place in the Indian Team. The upcoming weeks will be crucial for him to get his career back on track.
Although Sai Sudharsan is also available, Deepak would be close to being a like-to-like replacement for Tilak. While he can bat at No.4, Deepak can also provide a few overs of spin. Also, considering the Indian Team needs such multi-dimensional cricketers, giving one more chance to Deepak may not be a bad idea.
2) Venkatesh Iyer
Venkatesh Iyer is one of the players who might replace Tilak Varma for the Asian Games if he gets selected for the 2023 ODI World Cup. The Madhya Pradesh all-rounder also did well in IPL 2023. With Tilak Varma going out, he is likely to be drafted into the main squad.
While he is a top-order batter, Iyer can also play as a finisher. Hence, he might be a good choice to replace Tilak. Teams are not making full use of his bowling skills. However, for Venkatesh to get close to the Indian Team, he must become a better bowler. Maybe, bowling at the Asian Games might help him understand where he stands right now. It could help the Indian Team in the long run.
