THIS player can be India's next all-format star

• Tilak Varma boosts his red-ball credentials in the Duleep Trophy
• He scored three consecutive fifties, including a century for South Zone
• His form serves as a direct audition for a potential Test call-up

The buzz around Tilak Varma is growing louder. Fresh off a string of impressive scores in the Duleep Trophy, the stylish left-hander has reignited the conversation about his potential as a rare, all-format asset for Team India.

A Statement of Intent in First-Class Cricket

Tilak Varma's recent performances in the 2026 Duleep Trophy have been a powerful argument for his red-ball credentials. Playing for South Zone, he has demonstrated remarkable consistency and temperament. In the semi-final against North Zone, he scored a crucial unbeaten 116 in the first innings, followed by a match-winning 51 not out to steer his team into the final. Continuing this rich vein of form, he scored a gritty half-century in the final against East Zone, standing tall with an unbeaten 56 even as his team was under immense pressure facing a massive first-innings total of 708. This sequence of three consecutive fifty-plus scores, including a century under pressure, showcases a growing maturity and a hunger for runs in the longest format. His first-class average has now climbed to over 55, a testament to his excellent conversion rate of fifties to hundreds.

The Established T20 Powerhouse

While his red-ball game is earning new admirers, Varma's reputation was built on his explosive capabilities in T20 cricket. Since his breakout season with Mumbai Indians in the IPL, he has been a consistent performer, known for his fearless, 360-degree batting. His ability to handle pressure was evident from his very first season, and he has since become a vital cog in their middle order. This success translated seamlessly to the international stage, where he made an immediate impact for India. Now a regular in India's T20 setup, he is seen as a potential long-term solution for the middle order, especially following the departure of senior players. His high strike rate, combined with an ability to play match-winning knocks, has already made him one of the most exciting white-ball prospects in the country.

Adapting to the 50-Over Game

The One-Day International format is often the bridge for players looking to prove their all-format mettle, and Tilak Varma has shown promising signs. While his ODI career is still in its early stages, his selection in major squads like the Asia Cup signaled the selectors' faith in his abilities. His domestic List A record is strong, where he has demonstrated he can build an innings and not just play short, impactful cameos. The challenge in ODIs is blending the aggression of T20s with the patience of red-ball cricket. Varma has the technique and the range of shots to do so. Commentators and even senior players like Rohit Sharma have long believed he has the temperament required to succeed in the 50-over game, seeing him as a player who can adapt to various situations.

The All-Format Holy Grail

Becoming a genuine all-format star in the modern era of packed schedules and specialization is exceedingly difficult. It requires not only immense skill but also supreme fitness and mental fortitude. The primary question surrounding Varma has been whether his naturally aggressive, flair-filled style is suited for the rigours of Test cricket. His recent Duleep Trophy run has provided a compelling answer. He has shown he can curb his attacking instincts, respect the conditions, and play long innings when the team needs it. Legends like Sunil Gavaskar have noted that Varma possesses a sound technique and a good cricketing brain, two essential ingredients for longevity. The next step will be to prove he can do it consistently against international-level red-ball bowlers. The selectors are clearly watching, with his Duleep Trophy participation seen as a direct audition for a potential Test call-up.