Gambhir's backing inspires Tilak Varma's match-winning knock against New Zealand

Christchurch, Oct 24 : India batter Tilak Varma credited head coach Gautam Gambhir and batting coach Sitanshu Kotak for instilling confidence in him, saying their words of encouragement played a crucial role in his match-winning performance against New Zealand in the second T20 International.

Named Player of the Match for his impressive innings, Tilak said the faith shown by the team management motivated him to remain at the crease and guide India to victory despite losing five wickets during the chase.

Recalling his conversation with the coaches before the match, Tilak said Gambhir and Kotak had assured him that the team and the entire country believed in his abilities and expected him to stay until the end to secure the win.

Their advice remained at the forefront of his mind as he focused on taking the chase deep rather than taking unnecessary risks under pressure.

Tilak also highlighted his partnership with Naman Dhir, saying the duo carefully assessed the conditions and adjusted their batting approach. He observed that the pitch was slightly slower than the one used in the previous match, prompting them to concentrate on running between the wickets.

The pair targeted quick singles and converted them into twos against the spinners, adding around eight to ten valuable runs through their running. Tilak said they deliberately avoided unnecessary big shots against spin, preferring to reserve their attacking strokes for the faster bowlers.

He added that the pace offered by the fast bowlers would help them hit sixes, particularly on the large ground, and the strategy eventually helped India finish the chase in style.

Tilak praised Naman Dhir for his contribution, expressing regret that his dismissal in the final over of Mitchell Santner's spell interrupted their partnership. He felt India could have completed the chase by the 18th over had Dhir remained at the crease.

Following Dhir's dismissal, Tilak joined fellow Hyderabad batter Nitish Kumar Reddy to take India across the finish line. He expressed happiness at the two Hyderabad players contributing to the team's victory.

New Zealand also faced some bowling setbacks during the chase, with Matt Henry leaving the field midway through the innings due to an issue and being unable to complete his quota. Lockie Ferguson was also off the field during the final couple of overs.

Tilak's innings underlined the importance of patience, smart shot selection and running between the wickets in a pressure chase. He said the confidence shown by the team management had helped him remain focused on his responsibility and deliver when India needed him most.