'He can fit into all three formats' - Wasim Jaffer backs Tilak Varma to replace Virat Kohli

Virat Kohli has indicated that the 2027 World Cup represents his final 50-over tournament for India. The 37-year-old batter, who retired from Test cricket in May 2025 and stepped away from T20 internationals after the 2024 T20 World Cup triumph, is focused on one last major objective in the ODI format before concluding his international career.

Former India batter Wasim Jaffer has identified Tilak Varma as a strong candidate to occupy the number three position once Kohli departs from ODI cricket. Jaffer highlighted Varma's technical qualities and adaptability across different batting positions as key reasons for his suitability to fill the gap left by one of India's greatest batsmen.

“It feels great to see his versatility. He previously scored a century at No. 3, and now he has adapted to the No. 5 and No. 6 positions so beautifully. This is an amazing quality,” Jaffer said on his YouTube channel.

“It’s about time. When Virat and Rohit leave, Rohit, obviously, is a top-order batter, and Yashasvi Jaiswal is there to replace him, but I feel there will be a left-handed batter in Virat’s place. He has that game; we saw the way he scored runs in the Duleep Trophy. His first-class average is around 55. So, he can fit into all three formats pretty easily,” he added.

Jaffer elaborated on Varma's suitability to replace Kohli in the middle order, emphasising the left-hander's ability to perform across multiple formats and positions. The former India batter sees Varma's technical foundation and recent performances as strong indicators of his readiness for the role.

Kohli's motivation for the 2027 World Cup

Kohli himself has spoken about his motivation for the 2027 World Cup and the intensity required to compete at that level. The India batter remains committed to delivering his best performance in what will be his final World Cup campaign for the country.

"That is my motivation and like, you know, to leave everything out there. And of course, the goal is absolutely to win the World Cup and whatever it takes, I’m absolutely ready," Kohli said.

Kohli emphasised the unique demands of the 50-over format, particularly in the context of World Cup cricket where the intensity and stakes are at their highest. The veteran batter has consistently demonstrated his ability to perform under pressure in major tournaments throughout his career.

"The intensity of ⁠a 50-over World Cup is greater than anything. Because now, it’s about 10 games at a Twenty20 level of intensity," Kohli said.

Jaffer also commented on the development of other young Indian batters, noting positive changes in their approach and maturity. He observed that some players have refined their batting strategies and shown improved decision-making in recent performances.

"It seems that Abhishek has matured a bit. He takes a little time, and the assurance is visible now, although this format doesn't give you a lot of time. His earlier approach was to try to hit a six on the first ball. Now, he has understood that it was the wrong approach," Jaffer said.