HYDERABAD: We all are quite aware about the cricketers from Hyderabad representing the city in the Indian cricket squad, like Ambati Rayudu and Mohammmed Siraj. Likewise, 18-year old Thakur Tilak Varma from Hyderabad has been selected to represent India in the World Cup under-19 tournament, which is going to be held in South Africa in January 2020.

Tilak has been rewarded for his spirit and phennomenal consistency in the game. He took his coaching from Salam Bayash Legala Cricket Academy in Serilingampally.

Speaking to a daily about his excitement and exuding confidence Tilak said, “I am happy that I will play in the World Cup and would like to continue my form in South Africa. It will be a big challenge, but I am confident of scoring well in the tournament. I dedicate my selection to my coach (Salam Bayash) and parents (Gayatri Devi and Nagaraju). They sacrificed a lot for me."

Speaking about the way Tilak performs on the field, Rayudu said to a daily that the young batsman reminds him of Yuvraj Singh. “He whacks the ball with enormous power like Yuvraj. He is a good timer of the ball and has the potential to play for the country,” Rayudu added.

As per reports, Tilak entered the field at a young age of 11. He was introduced to Salam by his uncle BNN Raju. Speaking about Tilak's passion and hardwork towards the game, coach Salam said to the daily, “He is hard working and hungry to succeed. He would bat for hours at the nets to perfect his technique. He is a good learner of the game."

Tilak gave impeccable performances in many tournaments like under-14 and under-16 in the south zone. He was unstoppable and slammed centuries in every tournament. He was also selected for Asia's Cup to represent India which was held in Sri Lanka.

Finally speaking about his preparations for upcoming tournament, Tilak said, “My experience in England will be of help. The ball will swing and I’m mentally preparing for the hard and bouncy wickets of South Africa."

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