QUICK INFO BOX
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Namboori Thakur Tilak Varma |
| Nick Name | TV, Tilak |
| Profession | International Cricketer |
| Date of Birth | November 8, 2002 |
| Age | 23 Years (as of 2026) |
| Birthplace | Kukatpally, Hyderabad, Telangana |
| Hometown | Hyderabad, Telangana |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Religion | Hinduism |
| Zodiac Sign | Scorpio |
| Ethnicity | Telugu |
| Father | Namboori Nagaraju Varma (Electrician) |
| Mother | Namboori Gayatri Devi (Homemaker) |
| Siblings | N. Tarun Varma (Elder Brother) |
| Wife/Girlfriend | Single |
| Children | None |
| School | Crescent Model English School, Hyderabad |
| College | SriLepakshi Junior College, Hyderabad |
| Cricket Academy | Legala Cricket Academy, Lingampally |
| Role | Batting Allrounder |
| Batting Style | Left-Handed |
| Bowling Style | Right-Arm Off Break |
| Domestic Team | Hyderabad |
| IPL Team | Mumbai Indians |
| Jersey Number | 72 (India), 9 (MI) |
| Test Debut | Not Yet |
| ODI Debut | September 2023 vs Bangladesh |
| T20I Debut | August 3, 2023 vs West Indies |
| IPL Debut | 2022 (Mumbai Indians) |
| Coach | Salam Bayash (First Coach) |
| Height | 5’8″ (173 cm) |
| Weight | 70 kg |
| Eye Color | Black |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Net Worth | ₹15-20 Crore (2025-26) |
| IPL Salary | ₹8 Crore (IPL 2025) |
| @tilakvarma9 (5M+ followers) | |
| @TilakV9 (73K+ followers) |
1. Introduction
When Tilak Varma scored an unbeaten 69 in the 2025 Asia Cup final against Pakistan, he didn’t just win a match—he announced himself as India’s next middle-order superstar. This left-handed batting sensation from Hyderabad has rapidly climbed from playing tennis ball cricket in neighborhood streets to representing India on the biggest stages.
Tilak Varma is an Indian international cricketer who plays as a left-handed batsman and part-time off-spinner for the Indian national team, Mumbai Indians in the IPL, and Hyderabad in domestic cricket. Known for his elegant stroke play, fearless approach, and ability to accelerate under pressure, Tilak has become one of the most exciting young talents in world cricket.
In this comprehensive biography, you’ll discover everything about Tilak Varma’s inspiring journey—from his modest upbringing and early struggles to his record-breaking performances, impressive net worth estimated at ₹15-20 crore, luxurious lifestyle, career statistics, and future prospects in Indian cricket. Whether you’re a cricket enthusiast or simply curious about this rising star, this article covers every aspect of Tilak Varma’s life and career in 2026.
2. Early Life & Background
Born on November 8, 2002, in the Kukatpally neighborhood of Hyderabad, Telangana, Tilak Varma grew up in a modest Telugu family. His father, Namboori Nagaraju Varma, worked as an electrician from Medchal, while his mother, Namboori Gayatri Devi, a homemaker from Bhimavaram in Andhra Pradesh, managed their household. Despite facing financial constraints, the Varma family remained deeply supportive of Tilak’s cricketing dreams.
From a young age, Tilak showed an extraordinary passion for cricket. He would spend hours playing tennis ball cricket with friends in the narrow bylanes of Hyderabad’s old city. His raw talent caught the attention of coach Salam Bayash when Tilak was just 11 years old. This chance encounter would prove to be life-changing.
Coach Salam Bayash not only trained him at the Legala Cricket Academy in Lingampally but also provided transportation for the journey of more than 40 kilometers each way until the family moved closer to the academy. Bayash became more than a coach—he was a mentor who covered Tilak’s training fees and equipment costs, ensuring that financial limitations wouldn’t prevent a promising talent from pursuing his dreams.
Growing up, Tilak idolized batsmen who could play with flair and elegance. His childhood was marked by determination and sacrifice, with his family often going out of their way to support his training schedule. The values of humility, hard work, and perseverance instilled during these formative years continue to define Tilak Varma’s approach to cricket and life.
3. Family Details
| Relation | Name | Occupation |
|---|---|---|
| Father | Namboori Nagaraju Varma | Electrician |
| Mother | Namboori Gayatri Devi | Homemaker |
| Brother | N. Tarun Varma | Supportive Elder Brother |
| Spouse | Not Married | Single |
| Children | None | – |
Tilak’s family has been his backbone throughout his journey. His mother’s emotional reaction after his match-winning performance in the Asia Cup 2025 final went viral, showing the deep bond they share. His father, despite limited means, never compromised on supporting Tilak’s cricket education. His elder brother Tarun has always encouraged his pursuits, making the Varma family a perfect example of unity and support.
4. Education Background
School: Crescent Model English School, Riyasathnagar, Hyderabad
College: SriLepakshi Junior College, Hyderabad
Higher Education: Currently pursuing Bachelor of Business Administration (2nd Year) at Andhra University
Cricket Academy: Legala Cricket Academy, Lingampally, Hyderabad
Tilak Varma managed to balance his education with an intensive cricket schedule from a young age. He attended Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan’s Public School in Hyderabad during part of his schooling. Despite his cricket commitments taking precedence, Tilak understood the importance of education and continued his studies while rising through the ranks of domestic cricket. His pursuit of a business administration degree shows his interest in understanding the commercial aspects of professional sports and planning for life beyond cricket.
5. Cricket Career Journey
A. Domestic / Club Career
Tilak Varma’s professional cricket journey began remarkably early. He made his first-class debut for Hyderabad in the 2018-19 season at just 16 years old, showcasing maturity beyond his years. Within months, he was representing Hyderabad across all formats—making his T20 debut in the 2019 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and his List A debut in the 2019 Vijay Hazare Trophy.
His breakthrough in domestic cricket came during the 2021-22 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, where he finished as Hyderabad’s second-highest run-scorer with 215 runs in seven innings at a strike rate of 147.26. This explosive performance caught the attention of IPL scouts and national selectors alike.
In 2025, Tilak’s leadership qualities were recognized when he was named captain of the South Zone team for the Duleep Trophy, further cementing his status as a future leader in Indian cricket.
B. International Career
T20I Debut: Tilak made his international debut on August 3, 2023, in the first T20I against West Indies at Tarouba, where he top-scored for India with 39 runs from 22 deliveries. His first two scoring shots were sixes, announcing his arrival in international cricket with characteristic boldness.
In the second match of that series, he scored his first international half-century, becoming the second youngest Indian to score a fifty in men’s T20I cricket. He finished that debut series as India’s highest run-scorer.
Historic T20I Centuries: November 2024 marked Tilak’s arrival as a genuine match-winner at the international level. He scored his maiden T20I century against South Africa—an unbeaten 107 from 56 balls—becoming the second-youngest player to score a T20I century. Even more remarkably, he followed it up with an unbeaten 120 from 47 balls in the very next match, becoming the first player ever to score three consecutive T20I centuries.
Asia Cup 2025 Heroics: Tilak’s defining moment came in the Asia Cup 2025 final against Pakistan in Dubai. With India struggling at 20 for three while chasing 147, Tilak played a significant knock of 69 runs unbeaten, earning him the Player of the Match award as India defeated Pakistan by 5 wickets. This innings, played under immense pressure in one of cricket’s most high-stakes rivalries, established him as a crisis man for the Indian team.
ODI Debut: Tilak made his One Day International debut in September 2023 against Bangladesh in the 2023 Asia Cup, though he’s primarily been utilized in India’s T20I setup.
C. IPL / Franchise Cricket
Mumbai Indians Journey:
Tilak Varma was picked by Mumbai Indians for ₹1.70 crore at the mega auction before IPL 2022, 8.5 times his base price. This investment paid immediate dividends.
IPL 2022: He played all 14 games in his debut season and scored 397 runs at an average of 36.09 and a strike rate of 131.02. Despite Mumbai Indians finishing last, Tilak’s performances stood out, with his 61 off 33 balls against Rajasthan Royals being particularly memorable.
IPL 2023: He elevated his game further, scoring 343 runs in 11 games at an average of 42.87 and a strike rate of 164.11. This explosive season earned him his India call-up.
IPL 2024: Tilak finished the season with 416 runs with three half-centuries, his highest-ever IPL run tally, with his unbeaten 84 against Royal Challengers Bangalore being the highlight.
IPL 2025 Retention: Recognizing his immense value, Mumbai Indians retained Tilak as their fifth player for a massive ₹8 crore ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction—a 370% salary increase that reflected his growing stature in the franchise.
As of IPL 2025, Tilak has accumulated 1,389 runs in 47 matches at an impressive average of 40.85 and a strike rate of 145.45, with 8 half-centuries.
6. Career Timeline
📅 CAREER TIMELINE
2018-19 ─── First-class debut for Hyderabad at age 16
│
2019 ───── T20 & List A debuts for Hyderabad
│
2020 ───── Selected for U-19 World Cup, India reach final
│
2022 ───── IPL debut for Mumbai Indians, scores 397 runs
│
2023 ───── International debut vs West Indies (T20I)
│ ODI debut vs Bangladesh in Asia Cup
│
2024 ───── Back-to-back T20I centuries vs South Africa (107*, 120*)
│ First player ever with 3 consecutive T20I hundreds
│ IPL 2024: Career-best 416 runs
│
2025 ───── Asia Cup final hero: 69* vs Pakistan (Player of Match)
│ Retained by MI for ₹8 crore
│ Named South Zone captain for Duleep Trophy
│ ICC T20I Rankings: 3rd-4th position
│
2026 ───── Current: Key player in India's white-ball setup
7. Career Statistics
Batting Stats (International)
| Format | Matches | Innings | Runs | Average | SR | 100s | 50s | Highest |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Test | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – |
| ODI | 5 | 5 | 68 | 23.00 | – | 0 | 0 | – |
| T20I | 40 | 38 | 1,183 | 49.29 | 155+ | 3 | 6 | 120* |
IPL Statistics
| Format | Matches | Innings | Runs | Average | SR | 100s | 50s | Highest |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IPL | 47 | 44 | 1,389 | 40.85 | 145.45 | 0 | 8 | 84* |
Bowling Stats
| Format | Matches | Wickets | Average | Economy | Best | 5W |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| T20I | 40 | 0 | – | – | – | 0 |
| IPL | 47 | 0 | – | – | – | 0 |
Note: Tilak primarily bowls part-time off-spin and hasn’t taken wickets at the highest level yet.
8. Player Comparison Section
📊 Tilak Varma vs Suryakumar Yadav Comparison
| Statistic | Tilak Varma | Suryakumar Yadav |
|---|---|---|
| T20I Runs | 1,183 (40 matches) | 2,500+ (70+ matches) |
| T20I Average | 49.29 | 45+ |
| T20I Strike Rate | 155+ | 170+ |
| T20I Centuries | 3 | 4 |
| ICC Ranking (T20I) | 3rd-4th | Top 3 |
| IPL Runs | 1,389 (47 matches) | 3,000+ (150+ matches) |
Analysis: While Suryakumar Yadav currently holds more experience and explosive strike rates, Tilak Varma’s career trajectory shows remarkable similarities at the same age. Both are left-handed Mumbai Indians batsmen with exceptional T20 skills. Tilak’s average of 49.29 actually surpasses SKY’s at this stage, and his three consecutive T20I centuries (a world record) show his ability to dominate in this format. As Tilak gains more experience, he’s positioned to become SKY’s successor in India’s middle order across formats. Check out more about Suryakumar Yadav’s career.
9. Playing Style Analysis
Batting Technique & Signature Shots:
Tilak Varma is renowned for his elegant left-handed batting that combines classical technique with modern T20 aggression. His ability to play both pace and spin with equal comfort makes him a versatile middle-order batsman. His signature shots include:
- The inside-out lofted drive over extra cover
- Powerful pull shots to both sides of the wicket
- Innovative scoop and paddle sweeps against fast bowlers
- Wristy flicks through mid-wicket, reminiscent of VVS Laxman
Mental Strength:
What sets Tilak apart is his composure under pressure. His Asia Cup final innings demonstrated remarkable maturity for a 23-year-old, as he first consolidated the innings before accelerating at the right time. His ability to absorb pressure and then counter-attack is a rare quality.
Bowling & Fielding:
Though primarily a batsman, Tilak bowls handy off-spin that can be utilized to stem run flow in middle overs. As a fielder, he’s agile and safe in the deep, with quick reflexes and a strong throwing arm.
Strengths:
- Exceptional temperament in pressure situations
- Ability to rotate strike and find gaps
- Strong against both pace and spin
- Accelerates seamlessly without taking undue risks
- Clean striker of the cricket ball
Areas for Improvement:
- Building longer innings in ODI cricket
- Developing more boundary-hitting options against quality pace
- Improving strike rotation against mystery spinners
- Enhancing consistency in challenging overseas conditions
Expert Opinions:
Rohit Sharma proclaimed in 2022 that Tilak would soon be an all-format player for India, citing his technique, temperament, and shot-making ability. This endorsement from India’s captain speaks volumes about Tilak’s potential.
10. Achievements & Awards
International Awards:
- Player of the Match: Asia Cup 2025 Final vs Pakistan (69*)
- ICC T20I Rankings: Reached 3rd-4th position (2025-26)
- Historic Record: First player to score three consecutive centuries in T20 Internationals
National Honors:
- BCCI Central Contract: Grade C category (₹1 crore annually, 2024-25)
- Asian Games Gold Medal: 2023, Hangzhou, China (Team India)
- Asia Cup Winner: 2023 (ODI format), 2025 (T20I format – Final Hero)
Records Held:
- First player ever to score three consecutive T20I centuries (107*, 120*, and another hundred)
- Second-youngest Indian to score a T20I fifty after Rohit Sharma
- Second-youngest player to score a T20I century (22 years, when he scored 107*)
- Second-fastest Indian to reach 1,000 IPL runs in just 33 innings (after Sachin Tendulkar and Ruturaj Gaikwad)
- Third-youngest player to score 1,000 IPL runs at 21 years and 166 days
IPL Awards & Recognition:
- Youngest Mumbai Indians player to score a half-century at 19 years and 145 days
- Mumbai Indians’ Emerging Player recognition (IPL 2022)
- Retained player for ₹8 crore (IPL 2025) – highest honor for young talent
Domestic Achievements:
- South Zone Captain for Duleep Trophy 2025
- Captain of Hyderabad in Ranji Trophy Plate Division (2024 winners)
- Second-highest run-scorer for Hyderabad in 2021-22 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy
11. Net Worth & Earnings
💰 FINANCIAL OVERVIEW
| Year | Estimated Net Worth |
|---|---|
| 2023 | ₹3-5 Crore |
| 2024 | ₹5-8 Crore |
| 2025 | ₹15-20 Crore |
| 2026 | ₹20-30 Crore (Projected) |
Tilak Varma’s net worth in 2025 is estimated in the range of ₹15–20 crore, with some recent trackers placing him slightly higher around ₹20–30 crore as his ₹8 crore MI retention kicks in. His wealth has effectively tripled within just one year, thanks to his massive IPL salary hike and fresh brand endorsements following his Asia Cup heroics.
Income Sources:
1. BCCI Contract: ₹1 Crore annually (Grade C category, 2024-25)
- Match fees: ₹3 Lakh per T20I match
- Additional bonuses for series wins and major tournaments
2. IPL Salary:
- IPL 2022-2024: ₹1.7 Crore per season
- IPL 2025 onwards: ₹8 Crore per season (370% increase!)
- Total IPL earnings (2022-2025): Approximately ₹13.1 Crore
3. Endorsements: Estimated ₹1-1.5 Crore annually (and growing) Marketing analysts expect his endorsement value to jump 25-30% post Asia Cup 2025, targeting around ₹1.2 crore annually
4. Match Fees & Bonuses: ₹30-50 Lakh annually from domestic and international matches
Monthly Income: Approximately ₹20-25 Lakh
Brand Endorsements:
Tilak Varma has partnered with several youth-focused and lifestyle brands:
- Boost (Energy drink) – Nutrition & fitness
- SS Cricket (Sports equipment) – Cricket gear brand
- eBikeGo (Electric vehicles) – Sustainability ambassador
- Dream11 (Fantasy sports) – Gaming platform
- Birla Opus Paints – Home decor
- Bombay Shirt Company – Fashion & lifestyle
His clean image, calm demeanor, and rising fame have made him attractive to brands targeting young audiences. His Instagram growth and “young middle-order savior” narrative make him a clean pick for youth & lifestyle brands.
Business Ventures:
Currently, Tilak hasn’t launched major business ventures but is focusing on smart investments in real estate and assets. His partnership with eBikeGo positions him as a sustainability advocate, aligning with modern athlete branding strategies.
12. Lifestyle Section
🏠 ASSETS & LIFESTYLE
Properties:
- Primary Residence – Hyderabad
- Multi-storey modern house in Chandrayangutta, Hyderabad, often described as a “lavish villa”
- Estimated Value: ₹5-10 Crore
- Features: Modern interiors, dedicated fitness zone, family gathering areas
- Located in old city Hyderabad, close to his roots
Cars Collection:
Multiple reliable sources list a Mercedes-Benz S-Class and BMW 7-Series in his garage, representing luxury and success:
- Mercedes-Benz S-Class
- Model: Latest generation luxury sedan
- Price: ₹1.5-2 Crore
- Features: Ultimate luxury and comfort
- BMW 7-Series
- Model: High-performance luxury sedan
- Price: ₹1.3-1.8 Crore
- Features: Advanced technology and driving dynamics
- XEV 9e (Electric Vehicle)
- Gifted to his father
- Reflects his commitment to sustainability
- Hyundai Creta / Mid-segment SUV
- For regular daily use
- Practical family vehicle
Hobbies & Interests:
- Watching motivational and cricket videos
- Playing video games and mobile gaming
- Listening to Telugu and Hindi music
- Spending quality time with family
- Visiting Hindu temples (deeply religious)
- Mentoring young cricketers in Hyderabad
Diet & Fitness:
Workout Routine:
- Morning gym sessions focusing on strength and conditioning
- Cricket-specific drills including batting, fielding, and agility work
- Yoga and flexibility exercises for injury prevention
- Regular cardio for endurance
Diet Preferences:
- Balanced diet rich in proteins and complex carbohydrates
- Traditional Telugu cuisine at home
- Professional nutritionist guidance for match days
- Adequate hydration and recovery protocols
Despite his growing wealth, reports consistently describe Tilak as low-key but clearly upgraded lifestyle guy—luxury sedans, plush Hyderabad home, but not a daily flexer on social media. His focus remains on training and performance rather than ostentatious displays.
13. Physical Appearance
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Height | 5’8″ (173 cm) |
| Weight | 70 kg |
| Eye Color | Black |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Body Type | Athletic, Well-built |
| Tattoos | Yes – Lord Shiva on bicep, Lord Ganesha on forearm, “Om Namah Shivay” on chest |
| Distinguishing Features | Clean-shaven, athletic build, confident demeanor |
Tilak maintains a fit and athletic physique suited for the demands of international cricket. His religious tattoos reflect his deep Hindu faith and Telugu cultural heritage.
14. Coaches & Mentors
Childhood Coach: Salam Bayash
Salam Bayash spotted him playing tennis ball cricket at age 11 and trained him at the Legala Cricket Academy, providing not just coaching but also transport, equipment, and financial support.
Academy Coach: Legala Cricket Academy staff
Provided structured training and exposure to competitive cricket from ages 11-16.
Mumbai Indians Coaching Staff:
- Mahela Jayawardene (former Head Coach)
- Mark Boucher (current Head Coach)
- Robin Singh (batting coach)
National Team Mentors:
- Rohit Sharma, who proclaimed in 2022 that Tilak would soon be an all-format player, has been a key mentor
- Hardik Pandya – MI and India teammate
- Suryakumar Yadav – Similar batting style, senior MI colleague
Training Philosophy:
Tilak believes in combining traditional technique with modern T20 innovation. He focuses on situational awareness, understanding match contexts, and maintaining composure under pressure. His approach emphasizes smart cricket over reckless aggression.
15. Jersey Number History
| Team | Jersey Number | Years | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| India | 72 | 2023-Present | National team assignment |
| Mumbai Indians | 9 | 2022-Present | Personal choice/availability |
| Hyderabad | Varies | 2018-Present | Domestic cricket |
There’s no specific official reason for the different jersey numbers between India and MI, likely due to availability and team allocation systems.
16. Controversies & Challenges
Tilak Varma has maintained a remarkably clean image throughout his career with minimal controversies. However, he has faced some challenges:
Injury Setbacks (2024):
Tilak suffered freak hand injuries in 2024 that briefly interrupted his career momentum. These injuries required careful management and kept him out of some matches.
Recent Surgery (January 2026):
Tilak underwent surgery for an abdominal issue in Rajkot on January 7, 2026, and was ruled out of the first three T20Is against New Zealand. However, he maintained a positive attitude, sharing on Instagram that he was “already on the road to recovery.”
Financial Struggles:
His biggest challenge came early in life. When Varma was growing up, his father did not have the resources to send him for private coaching. This obstacle was overcome through coach Salam Bayash’s generosity and support.
Pressure of Expectations:
After his rapid rise, Tilak faces immense expectations from fans and management. He’s learned to handle pressure by focusing on the process rather than results.
Public Response:
Throughout all challenges, Tilak has demonstrated maturity and grace, maintaining focus on his cricket and earning respect from teammates, coaches, and fans alike.
17. Charity & Philanthropy
While Tilak Varma hasn’t yet established a formal foundation, he actively participates in charitable activities:
Grassroots Cricket:
He regularly features in franchise CSR events and grassroots cricket activities, especially around Hyderabad and MI’s outreach programs.
Mentorship Programs:
Tilak frequently mentors young cricketers from economically challenged backgrounds, remembering his own journey. He visits local cricket academies in Hyderabad to inspire the next generation.
Community Support:
Being from a modest background himself, Tilak understands the value of support. He often contributes to causes supporting underprivileged children’s education and sports development in Telangana.
Future Plans:
As his career and wealth grow, there are expectations that Tilak will launch more structured philanthropic initiatives focused on cricket development for economically disadvantaged youth.
18. Personal Interests & Favorites
| Category | Favorites |
|---|---|
| Favorite Food | Telugu traditional cuisine, Biryani |
| Favorite Movie | Sports and action films |
| Favorite Actor | Jr. NTR, Mahesh Babu (Telugu cinema) |
| Favorite Singer | Telugu and Hindi music artists |
| Travel Destination | Dubai, Australia (cricket tours) |
| Favorite Book | Motivational and sports biographies |
| Other Sports | Football, Tennis |
| Favorite Cricketer | Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, VVS Laxman |
| Music Genre | Telugu film songs, Bollywood |
| Favorite Color | Blue (reflecting Team India) |
Tilak maintains strong connections to his Telugu heritage, enjoying regional cinema and music. His interests reflect a grounded personality focused on family, culture, and continuous self-improvement.
19. Social Media Presence
Active Social Media Accounts:
| Platform | Handle | Followers (Jan 2026) | Engagement |
|---|---|---|---|
| @tilakvarma9 | 5 Million+ | 13.09% engagement rate | |
| Twitter/X | @TilakV9 | 73,200+ | Active posting |
| Tilak Varma | 28,000+ | Less active | |
| YouTube | No official channel | – | – |
Instagram Highlights: Tilak has 5 million followers on Instagram with 365 posts, where he shares:
- Match updates and celebrations
- Training session glimpses
- Brand endorsement content
- Family moments and cultural celebrations
- Inspirational messages for young cricketers
Content Strategy:
Tilak maintains an authentic social media presence that balances professional cricket content with personal insights. His posts often include motivational messages in Telugu and English, connecting with his regional fan base while maintaining national appeal.
Brand Links & Social Media:
- Instagram Official: https://www.instagram.com/tilakvarma9
- Twitter Official: https://twitter.com/TilakV9
- Mumbai Indians Profile: https://www.mumbaiindians.com/teams/players/13-season-2024/126-tilak-varma
20. Recent News & Updates (2025-2026)
Asia Cup 2025 Heroics (September 2025):
Tilak was crowned Player of the Match in the Asia Cup 2025 final after his match-winning 69* against Pakistan in Dubai, cementing his status as India’s middle-order crisis man.
IPL 2025 Mega Retention:
Mumbai Indians retained Tilak for ₹8 crore, a 370% salary increase, making him one of the highest-paid young cricketers in the IPL.
Duleep Trophy Captaincy (September 2025):
Tilak was appointed captain of the South Zone team for the Duleep Trophy, showcasing his leadership credentials.
Recent Surgery (January 2026):
On January 7, 2026, Tilak underwent surgery for an abdominal issue in Rajkot and was ruled out of the first three T20Is against New Zealand. He shared on Instagram that he was “already on the road to recovery.”
ICC Rankings Achievement:
Tilak reached a career-best 3rd-4th position in ICC T20I batting rankings in late 2025, establishing himself among the world’s elite T20 batsmen.
Media Buzz:
Following the Asia Cup final, multiple interviews and features highlighted Tilak’s journey, with former cricketers and commentators praising his temperament and technique. His mother’s emotional reaction to his innings became a viral moment on social media.
Upcoming Commitments:
- Recovery and rehabilitation from recent surgery
- Return to action in mid-January 2026 T20I series
- Preparation for potential Test debut (widely anticipated in 2026)
- Continued role in India’s white-ball teams
21. Lesser-Known Facts About Tilak Varma
- Name Origin: His full name is Namboori Thakur Tilak Varma. “Namboori” is his surname, indicating his Telugu Brahmin heritage.
- 40 km Daily Commute: Before his family moved, Tilak used to travel over 40 kilometers each way to train at Legala Cricket Academy, with his coach providing transportation.
- Tennis Ball Roots: Tilak was discovered playing tennis ball cricket in the narrow bylanes of Hyderabad’s old city.
- Religious Devotion: He has multiple tattoos dedicated to Hindu deities including Lord Shiva, Lord Ganesha, and “Om Namah Shivay” inscribed on his body.
- U-19 World Cup Runner-up: Tilak was part of India’s U-19 World Cup team in 2020 that reached the final, where they lost to Bangladesh.
- Rohit’s Early Praise: Mumbai Indians captain Rohit Sharma predicted in 2022 that Tilak would soon be an all-format player for India, well before his international breakthrough.
- Historic Hat-trick of Centuries: Tilak is the first player in cricket history to score three consecutive T20I centuries, a record that may stand for decades.
- Fastest T20I Century Partnership: He and Sanju Samson formed the fastest T20I partnership for India, adding 100+ runs in just 8.3 overs against South Africa.
- Engineering Aspirant: Before cricket took over, Tilak had aspirations of becoming an engineer, but his passion for cricket prevailed.
- Coach’s Sacrifice: His first coach, Salam Bayash, paid for his equipment, training fees, and even provided daily transportation—a gesture Tilak has never forgotten.
- Left-handed Genius: Despite being naturally right-handed in daily life, Tilak bats and throws left-handed, which he developed during childhood cricket.
- VVS Laxman Comparison: Cricket experts often compare his elegant batting style to legendary Indian batsman VVS Laxman, another Hyderabadi left-hander.
- Youngest MI Record-holder: He became the youngest Mumbai Indians player to score a half-century at just 19 years and 145 days.
- Asian Games Gold: Tilak won a gold medal with Team India at the 2023 Asian Games in Hangzhou, China.
- Sustainability Advocate: He gifted his father an electric vehicle (XEV 9e) and endorses eBikeGo, showing his commitment to environmental causes.
22. FAQs
Q1: Who is Tilak Varma?
A: Tilak Varma is a 23-year-old Indian international cricketer who plays as a left-handed batsman for India, Mumbai Indians, and Hyderabad. He made history by becoming the first player to score three consecutive T20I centuries and was the hero of Asia Cup 2025 final.
Q2: What is Tilak Varma’s net worth in 2026?
A: Tilak Varma’s estimated net worth in 2026 is approximately ₹15-20 crore, with some estimates reaching ₹20-30 crore. His wealth includes IPL salary, BCCI contract, endorsements, and assets.
Q3: How did Tilak Varma start his cricket career?
A: Tilak started playing tennis ball cricket in Hyderabad’s streets. At age 11, coach Salam Bayash discovered him and trained him at Legala Cricket Academy, even covering training costs and providing daily transportation over 40 kilometers.
Q4: Is Tilak Varma married?
A: No, Tilak Varma is currently single and unmarried. At 23 years old, he is focused on establishing his cricket career.
Q5: What records does Tilak Varma hold?
A: Tilak holds several records including: First player ever to score three consecutive T20I centuries, second-youngest Indian to score a T20I fifty, third-youngest to reach 1,000 IPL runs, and second-fastest Indian to 1,000 IPL runs (33 innings).
Q6: Which IPL team does Tilak Varma play for?
A: Tilak Varma plays for Mumbai Indians in the IPL. He was retained for ₹8 crore ahead of IPL 2025, representing a 370% salary increase from his original ₹1.7 crore contract.
Q7: What is Tilak Varma’s highest score in international cricket?
A: Tilak Varma’s highest T20I score is 120* (not out), scored against South Africa in November 2024 off just 47 balls at a strike rate of 255.32.
Q8: How many centuries has Tilak Varma scored?
A: Tilak has scored 3 T20I centuries (all three consecutive—107*, 120*, and another century) and 0 ODI centuries. He has 8 IPL half-centuries but no IPL centuries yet.
Q9: What is Tilak Varma’s jersey number?
A: Tilak wears jersey number 72 for the Indian national team and jersey number 9 for Mumbai Indians in the IPL.
Q10: Where was Tilak Varma born?
A: Tilak Varma was born in Kukatpally, Hyderabad, Telangana, India, on November 8, 2002.
Q11: What is Tilak Varma’s IPL salary?
A: Tilak Varma earns ₹8 crore per season from Mumbai Indians as of IPL 2025, after being retained as one of their core players.
Q12: Has Tilak Varma played Test cricket?
A: No, Tilak Varma has not made his Test debut yet. However, with his consistent performances and technical abilities, a Test debut is widely anticipated in 2026.
Q13: What brands does Tilak Varma endorse?
A: Tilak endorses several brands including Boost, SS Cricket, eBikeGo, Dream11, Birla Opus Paints, and Bombay Shirt Company.
Q14: How tall is Tilak Varma?
A: Tilak Varma stands 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm) tall and weighs approximately 70 kg.
Q15: What is Tilak Varma’s batting style?
A: Tilak Varma is a left-handed batsman known for elegant stroke play, strong technique against both pace and spin, and exceptional temperament under pressure. He can play anchor or accelerator roles depending on match situations.
23. Conclusion
Tilak Varma’s journey from the narrow bylanes of Hyderabad to becoming one of India’s most promising cricketers is nothing short of inspirational. From a humble family background where his father worked as an electrician, Tilak has risen through sheer talent, determination, and the unwavering support of his family and mentor Salam Bayash.
At just 23 years old, Tilak has already achieved what many cricketers dream of—international success, record-breaking performances, and financial security estimated at ₹15-20 crore. His historic feat of scoring three consecutive T20I centuries and his match-winning 69* in the Asia Cup 2025 final against Pakistan have established him as a genuine match-winner and crisis man for India.
With Mumbai Indians retaining him for ₹8 crore and a BCCI central contract in place, Tilak’s future looks extraordinarily bright. Cricket experts and former players believe he has all the attributes to become an all-format legend for India, potentially filling the shoes of legends like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in the middle order.
As he recovers from his recent surgery and prepares for upcoming challenges in 2026, including a potential Test debut, Tilak Varma represents the new generation of Indian cricket—talented, fearless, grounded, and ready to take on the world. His story reminds us that with dedication, proper guidance, and opportunity, anyone can achieve greatness regardless of their background.
Keep following Tilak Varma’s journey as he continues to script new chapters in Indian cricket history. Share this article with fellow cricket fans and stay tuned for more updates on this rising superstar!
Related Reading:
- Virat Kohli – Complete Biography
- Rohit Sharma – Career Stats & Journey
- Shubman Gill – Rising Star Profile
- Rishabh Pant – Wicketkeeper-Batsman Extraordinaire
- Suryakumar Yadav – T20 Maestro
- Yashasvi Jaiswal – Young Opening Sensation
- Hardik Pandya – All-Rounder Profile
- Jasprit Bumrah – Pace Bowling Legend
