Even Rs 60 lakh would not have been enough for Tilak Varma: Falcons’ skipper Ravi Teja

Medak Falcons skipper Ravi Teja lavished praise on star player Tilak Varma after the India T20I vice-captain produced a sensational unbeaten 136 to power his side to a three-wicket victory over Warangal Warriors in the Hyderabad Cricket Association’s TG20 at the RGIC Stadium in Hyderabad on Monday night.

Having arrived from national duty less than 24 hours before the match, Tilak smashed 14 fours and eight sixes as the Falcons chased down 259 with two balls to spare in one of the most dramatic contests of the tournament so far. Ravi Teja said the innings justified every bit of the faith the franchise had shown in their marquee player.

In a battle of centuries, Tilak trumps Aman and leads Medak to 3-wicket win over Warangal

“People questioned us for spending Rs 33 lakh on Tilak Varma, but after watching this innings, I can say even Rs 60 lakh would not have been enough. He is one of the best players in the country and a genuine match-winner. He has won games single-handedly throughout his career and did it again today,” Ravi Teja said.

The Falcons captain also highlighted Tilak’s impact beyond his batting. Despite his hectic travel schedule, the left-hander made it a point to interact with every member of the squad and keep the dressing room relaxed ahead of the mammoth chase.

While Tilak eventually stole the show, Ravi Teja reserved special praise for Warangal Warriors captain Aman Rao Perala, whose breathtaking 142 off 48 balls had earlier powered his side to 258 for 7.

“When you watch Aman Rao and Tilak Varma bat, it shows the level they are operating at. It was incredible to witness both of them play in the same game. The fans truly got their money’s worth,” he said.

Tilak Varma with his coach Salam Bayash, who is also team mentor for Ranga Reddy Risers

Ravi Teja also identified Aman Rao’s dismissal as the turning point of the match. With the Warriors opener threatening to take the game completely away from the Falcons, his wicket helped the side regain belief and restrict the damage in the closing overs.

“That catch changed our confidence completely. Until then, we had almost given up. In T20 cricket, one moment of brilliance can change everything, and that wicket helped us pull things back in the final overs,” he said.

The skipper also credited Vikram Naik for providing crucial support to Tilak during the decisive stages of the chase. Vikram’s 27 off 12 balls proved vital as the Falcons recovered from 190 for 6 to script one of the highest successful run chases in Indian domestic T20 cricket.

Describing the contest as one of the best matches he has been a part of, Ravi Teja said the game showcased the quality of talent on display in the TG20 and underlined the tournament’s potential to create opportunities for cricketers across Telangana.