What was initially reported is now official—Tilak Varma has been confirmed as Hampshire’s overseas signing for the County Championship. The Mumbai Indians’ (MI) batting star could make his debut in red-ball English domestic cricket on June 22, coinciding with the third day of the first Test between England and India at Headingley.
Tilak Varma follows Gaikwad’s steps
Hampshire County Cricket Club confirmed the signing on Tuesday, stating that Tilak will be available for their next four County Championship fixtures, beginning with an away clash against Essex in Chelmsford. The 21-year-old left-hander becomes the second Indian player this week, after Ruturaj Gaikwad (Yorkshire), to sign a County deal this summer.
More known for his exploits in the shorter formats, Tilak has already played 29 matches for India, 25 of those in T20Is, where he has amassed 749 runs, including two hundreds and three fifties. Both his centuries came in back-to-back innings against South Africa in late 2024, while he also struck a composed 72* against England earlier this year. In the IPL, he has been a consistent performer as well for the Mumbai Indians (MI) since 2022, with nearly 1500 runs in 54 matches.
Yet, it’s his first-class record that makes this move exciting. Playing for Hyderabad in domestic cricket, Tilak has scored over 1200 runs in 18 first-class games at an average of 50.16, with five centuries and four fifties. He has also featured for India A in the Duleep Trophy and the England Lions series in early 2024.
It is safe to say that Tilak chose the right time to join a County side, since India’s upcoming domestic season won’t start until late August. Signing for a four-match deal, Tilak will be eligible to play until the Worcestershire game that ends on August 1.
“It’s fantastic to have Tilak available for the next four County Championship matches,” said Giles White, Hampshire’s Director of Cricket. “He’s an exciting talent… and we look forward to seeing what he can do for Hampshire this summer.”
Tilak Varma first-class stats
| Inns | Runs | HS | Avg | SR | 100s | 50s |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 28 | 1204 | 121 | 50.16 | 58.76 | 5 | 4 |
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