Wasim Jaffer Says Tilak Varma Can Take Virat Kohli's Spot at No. 3 in ODIs

Former India cricketer Wasim Jaffer has backed Tilak Varma as the ideal successor to Virat Kohli at No. 3 in India’s ODI team once the veteran batter retires from the format. Kohli, 37, has confirmed that the 2027 World Cup will be his last, increasing speculation about who could eventually take over his long-established position in the batting order.

Jaffer made the suggestion after India’s victory over Pakistan in the Asian Games 2026 final. While several names have been discussed as possible replacements for Kohli, including Shubman Gill, Ishan Kishan and Ruturaj Gaikwad, Jaffer picked Tilak as the player he believes can best fill the role. His choice is based in part on the left-hander’s versatility and ability to adapt across formats.

Jaffer praised Tilak’s flexibility as a batter and highlighted it as one of his biggest strengths. “It feels great to see his versatility. This is an amazing quality,” Jaffer said while discussing the young batter’s development. According to the former India opener, Tilak’s ability to contribute in different situations makes him a strong candidate for a prominent role in the ODI side.

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Jaffer also pointed to the advantage of having a left-handed batter in the position traditionally occupied by Kohli. “Tilak can take Virat’s spot. You’ll get a left-hander as well. He can fit in three formats easily,” he said. The assessment suggests that Jaffer sees Tilak not simply as a replacement for Kohli’s batting position but as someone who could bring a different dimension to India’s top order.

Kohli has been one of India’s most consistent performers at No. 3 in ODI cricket for much of his international career. His eventual departure will leave a significant vacancy in the batting order, particularly because the position has been closely associated with his run-scoring and ability to anchor innings. India will therefore need to identify a long-term option before the 2027 World Cup.

Tilak’s potential elevation to No. 3 would represent a significant responsibility for the young batter, but Jaffer’s endorsement places him among the players being considered for India’s post-Kohli ODI era. With the 2027 World Cup confirmed as Kohli’s final appearance in the tournament, the Indian team has an opportunity to assess possible successors well ahead of the transition. Jaffer believes Tilak’s versatility, left-handed batting and ability to play across formats make him a suitable candidate.

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