Tilak Verma

Discovered at age 11 by coach Salam Bayash, who supported his early training and expenses, Tilak Verma rose from tennis-ball cricket in Hyderabad to the international stage through talent, discipline, and guidance. He honed his skills at the Legala Cricket Academy before moving quickly through domestic cricket.

He debuted in first-class cricket for Hyderabad during the 201819 Ranji Trophy and followed it with List A and T20 appearances the next season. His domestic performances earned him a spot in India’s squad for the 2020 Under-19 World Cup.

Tilak’s IPL breakthrough came in 2022 when Mumbai Indians acquired him for 1.7 crore. He impressed immediately with his composure and shot-making and has since been a consistent performer, including scoring 416 runs at a strike rate of nearly 150 in the 2024 season.

Internationally, Tilak made his T20I debut for India against the West Indies in August 2023, top-scoring in his first match and ending the series as India’s highest run-scorer. His ODI debut followed during the Asia Cup 2023. He continued his rise by scoring an unbeaten 69 in the Asia Cup 2025 final against Pakistan, leading India to victory and reaching a career-high ICC T20I batting ranking of No. 2.

Technically sound and an all-rounder, Tilak is a left-handed batsman known for aggressive stroke play, calm temperament, and adaptability across formats. He has also captained India ‘A’ and the South Zone in domestic tournaments and recorded consecutive T20 centuries in November 2024.