In a tournament filled with high-voltage drama and record-breaking performances, sometimes the most memorable moments happen off the field. Follows India’s 73-run win over Zimbabwe In the T20 World Cup Super 8 clash at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Thursday, the young batsman Tilak Varma won the hearts of millions with a heartwarming gesture – recording a special video message for the sister of Zimbabwean athlete Brad Evans, who is a massive fan of the Indian cricketer.
Brad Eva’s sister’s special request from Tilak Varma
After the match ended, as the players from both sides mingled on the field in the traditional post-match interaction, the Zimbabwean pacer Brad Evans approached Tilek with a special request. Evans’ sister Rebeccaback home, the youngster is a big fan of the Indian batter and was begging his brother for a special video message.
“My sister is a huge fan of his, so she asked if she could have a video message.” Evans told the ICC, capturing the moment that would soon go viral on social media platforms.
Tilak, ever humble and grounded despite his rising star, responded positively without a moment’s hesitation.
Tilak Varma fulfills Brad Evan’s sister request
What followed was a warm, genuine message that has won hearts in the cricketing world ever since. In the video, Tilak addressed Rebecca directly with words that reflect both humility and sportsmanship.
“Hi Rebecca, thanks for being a huge fan. It means a lot. I hope to see you when I’m in Zimbabwe. I’ll meet you and your brother is amazing. He bowled really well and I’ll see you soon. Thanks again,” Tilak said in a video message.
Evans later revealed how much the message would mean to her sister. “Actually, he just texted me the other day asking for a message. He’ll be so embarrassed, but he got the message now.” he finished with a smile.
Tilak winning the match against Zimbabwe
The demand came shortly after Tilak produced a breathtaking performance that helped India to the second-highest total in T20 World Cup history – a mammoth 256/4. Batting at an unfamiliar No.6 position after being dropped due to the inclusion of Sanju Samson, the left-hander smashed 44 off just 16 deliveries at an impressive strike rate of 275.
His knock of 4 fours and 6 sixes came in a crucial 84-run partnership with Hardik Pandya from just 31 balls. A late blitz took the game away from Zimbabwe and ensured India posted a total that proved too much for the Chevrons who were eventually restricted to 183.
Speaking after the match, Tilak talked about his new role in the batting order. “I always say whatever the team needs, I’m ready for it. I’ve done the same role for Mumbai Indians in the IPL since the last four years and also played a few games for the Indian team, so I’m ready for it. I can adjust.” He said at the post-game press conference.
He added that “I was just waiting for an innings, so I’m really thankful to God that it came at the right time. Now I’m very confident that I can win games for the team going forward.”
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Fans appreciate Tilak’s humility
The video quickly went viral on social media platforms, with fans praising Tilak for his humility and warmth. Many have noted that such gestures restore faith in the human side of the sport at a time when cricketers are often inaccessible to fans.
The interaction also highlighted the unique camaraderie that develops between competitors during multinational tournaments, where short field battles give way to long-lasting friendships.
What’s next for Tilak and Team India?
With this win, India kept their semi-final hopes alive and a virtual knockout against the West Indies at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata on 1 March. Tilak’s form, which saw him record 151 runs in six outings at an average of 30.20 and a strike rate of 142.45, will be crucial to India’s promotion chances.
