Tilak Varma Breaks ‘Chasemaster’ Virat Kohli’s Record, Emerges as India’s New Run-Chase Hero

Indian cricket has found a new name synonymous with composure under pressure. Young left-hander Tilak Varma achieved a landmark moment during the third T20I against South Africa in Dharamshala, surpassing legendary batter Virat Kohli to register the highest batting average in T20I run chases in the world.

At just 23, Tilak’s rise has been rapid, but Sunday’s game marked a symbolic breakthrough. Batting at No.3, he played a calm yet crucial knock of 25 not out off 34 balls as India chased down a modest target of 118 in 15.5 overs. The innings may not have been flashy, but it underlined his growing reputation as a dependable finisher in pressure situations.

 Surpassing Virat Kohli

With this innings, Tilak Varma’s average in T20I run chases climbed to 68.0 (minimum 500 runs), pushing him ahead of Virat Kohli’s long-standing mark of 67.1. Kohli has long been regarded as the gold standard while chasing, making Tilak’s achievement all the more significant.

 Record Against South Africa

Tilak also set another major record, becoming the Indian batter with the highest T20I average against a single opponent. His average against South Africa now stands at 70.50, surpassing Kohli’s 70.28 against Pakistan (minimum 300 runs).

 Tilak Varma in T20I Run Chases

 Runs: 543
 Innings: 16
 Average: 68.0
 Highest Score: 72

In comparison, Virat Kohli scored 2013 runs in 48 T20I chases at an average of 67.10, numbers that defined an era.

 Consistency at No.3

Batting at No.3, Tilak Varma has shown remarkable consistency and impact. In this position, he has scored 468 runs in 14 innings at an average of 58.5 and an impressive strike rate of 160.27, including two centuries and two half-centuries.

 Strong Form in the Ongoing Series

The ongoing five-match T20I series against South Africa has further highlighted Tilak’s form. He has scored 113 runs in three matches, including a fluent 62 off 34 balls in the second T20I.

 India’s Next Chase Specialist

Overall, Tilak Varma now has 1110 runs in 39 T20Is, averaging 48.26 with a strike rate of 142.49, along with two hundreds and five fifties.

At just 23, the numbers suggest India may already have found its next great run-chase specialist—one who has now edged past the legendary ‘Chasemaster’ himself.

Catch the match live updates, highlights, and full match coverage on CricRadio. Get fast, accurate, and ad-free updates throughout the game. Download the CricRadio app from the Play Store to stay connected. You can also get the live scores of cricket series directly on the CricRadio website for real-time coverage.