---
title: "Tilak Varma outlines Test cricket ambitions ahead of T20I Afghanistan series"
canonical: "https://readcricket.com/2026/09/10/tilak-varma/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
section: "News"
published: "2026-09-10T06:27:37Z"
modified: "2026-09-10T06:27:37Z"
---

# Tilak Varma outlines Test cricket ambitions ahead of T20I Afghanistan series

South Zone captain Tilak Varma has reaffirmed his Test cricket ambitions after concluding a stellar Duleep Trophy campaign with a resilient 99 against East Zone in Chennai.

The 23-year-old left-hander faced 211 deliveries before falling short of consecutive centuries as his side were dismissed for 336 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium.

Varma now manages a two-day turnaround before assuming India’s T20I vice-captaincy against Afghanistan in New Delhi, demanding a swift mental reset.

## Red Ball Priority Remains

The batter amassed 266 runs across three innings during the tournament, elevating his first-class record to 1,729 runs at an average of 55.77.

His ability to bat for extended periods provides a solid technical foundation for his immediate white-ball leadership transition.

Speaking to [The Times of India](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/cricket/news/tilak-varmas-duleep-trophy-dream-run-ends-at-99-but-test-goal-remains/articleshow/133993519.cms), Varma outlined his long-term priorities.

“I always say to everyone that I want to play red-ball cricket for India, that’s my biggest goal. As a kid, I thought I would play Test cricket first and then white-ball cricket. Red-ball cricket has always been my favourite, it’s my ‘A’ game,” — Tilak.

As international schedules evolve, with administrators confirming a [West Indies Test tour](https://readcricket.com/2026/09/08/bangladesh-confirm-west-indies-test-tour-for-october/) for Bangladesh this October, Varma is cementing his own credentials for future selection.

His domestic application highlights a broader red-ball resilience, an attribute current England captain Joe Root championed while preparing for the [third Edgbaston Test](https://readcricket.com/2026/09/08/joe-root-dismisses-pakistan-criticism-before-third-edgbaston-test/) against Pakistan.

Varma will lead India out as vice-captain in Friday’s series opener against Afghanistan.