‘He Slipped Away’ - Mike Hesson Reveals RCB Wanted Tilak Varma In Place Of Rajat Patidar
Tilak Varma plays for MI since 2022 (x.com)
Former Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) Director of Cricket, Mike Hesson, expressed regret over the team's decision not to pursue IPL rising star Tilak Varma more aggressively during an auction. Hesson disclosed,
"I believe Tilak Varma was a player who slipped away. He was on our scouting list. We went for Rajat Patidar at that time. We needed to make a decision on who we were going for."
He emphasized the need for another left-hander in the top order, acknowledging Varma's talent despite concerns about facing short balls domestically.
Hesson's sentiments reflect the complexities of IPL auctions and the importance of strategic decision-making. He admitted,
"It would have been nice to have another left-hander in the top order." However, he commended Varma's success in the IPL, stating, "Since he’s come to the IPL, he’s made every post a winner."
Highlighting Varma's ability, Hesson expressed,
"I think he is one that I wish that we pushed a little bit harder for."
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Despite the hindsight, Varma's performance has proven his quality, making him a valuable asset for any team. Hesson acknowledged the advantage of having a left-hander in the RCB top order.
Tilak Varma, currently donning the blue jersey of the Mumbai Indians in the Indian Premier League (IPL) since 2022, has seen a meteoric rise in the cricketing circuit. He was bought by the Ambani-backed franchise for 1.7 crores after a tug-of-war with other teams during the mega auction.
Tilak Varma's consistent performances in the IPL have led to remarkable achievements, including a debut season where he scored 397 runs and a subsequent season with 343 runs at a striking rate of 164.
His stellar performances earned him a call-up to the Indian T20I and ODI sides, where he showcased his talent with impressive performances.
 "Sumit Gupta")
