Tilak Varma’s much-anticipated debut in the One-Day Cup for Hampshire didn’t go as planned. The young Mumbai Indians batter, who was expected to make a strong start to his campaign on August 5 (Tuesday), was dismissed for a three-ball duck against Glamorgan.
Promising Start by Hampshire Top Order
Hampshire had a solid beginning to their innings thanks to openers Ali Orr and Nick Gubbins. The duo stitched together a steady 68-run partnership for the first wicket in 13.4 overs, laying the perfect foundation for the middle order to build on. With the stage set, all eyes turned to Tilak Varma as he walked in to bat.
However, the left-hander couldn’t make an impact. Facing just three deliveries, Varma was undone by a superb delivery from Ned Leonard. The ball, pitched on middle and leg, nipped away just enough to catch the outside edge of Varma’s bat.
Stunning Catch Ends Tilak’s Stay Early
While the edge could have easily run away safely, slip fielder Asa Tribe had other plans. Tribe executed a stunning full-length, two-handed diving catch that dismissed Varma and cut short his debut innings in dramatic fashion.
Though the 21-year-old didn’t trouble the scorers this time, there’s still plenty of cricket left in the tournament. Varma is expected to get multiple chances throughout the One-Day Cup to showcase his talent and turn things around for Hampshire.
Fans and analysts alike will be keenly watching how the talented southpaw bounces back in the coming fixtures.
