‘Don’t record videos without permission, I don’t support this’ – Annoyed Tilak Varma tells teammate Arshdeep Singh

India batter Tilak Varma found himself at the centre of social media chatter after a light-hearted moment inside the Indian dressing room went viral following India’s T20 World Cup warm-up match against South Africa. A video showed Tilak appearing visibly irritated as fast bowler Arshdeep Singh filmed him without permission while he was eating, prompting the left-hander to firmly ask Arshdeep to stop recording.

While the clip sparked widespread reactions online, the incident is widely believed to be a prank among teammates. Tilak recently featured in Arshdeep’s YouTube vlog, and the two are known to share a close rapport, along with wicketkeeper Ishan Kishan, who was also present during the exchange.

Watch the video here: 

More importantly, Tilak ensured the focus quickly shifted back to cricket with an impressive performance on the field. Making his return to the Indian side, the 22-year-old produced a fluent 45-run knock against a strong South African bowling attack. Batting with confidence and freedom, Tilak scored his runs off just 19 deliveries, striking three boundaries and three sixes to underline his impact in the middle order.

The innings held added significance given Tilak’s recent absence from competitive cricket. The left-hander missed India’s T20I series against New Zealand after undergoing emergency surgery for testicular torsion. Having spent time on the sidelines recovering, Tilak’s time in the middle during the warm-up was crucial as he looked to regain rhythm ahead of the tournament.

Tilak is expected to play a key role in India’s T20 World Cup campaign as the team eyes a historic feat, aiming to become the first men’s side to successfully defend a T20 World Cup title, having edged South Africa by seven runs in a tense final in Barbados in the previous edition.

However, the current Indian side looks notably different from the one that lifted the trophy last year. Under the guidance of head coach Gautam Gambhir, India have embraced a more aggressive and flexible approach, placing greater emphasis on intent and adaptability across conditions.

Entering the tournament as strong favourites, India have drawn praise from rival teams who believe the side is currently operating a level above the rest. With Tilak fit and in form, India’s middle-order depth appears stronger than ever heading into the World Cup.