Tilak Varma breaks Virat Kohli’s T20I record after Chennai heroics vs England-OxBig News Network

Tilak Varma shattered Virat Kohli’s India record and the world record for the most runs in T20Is without being dismissed during his unbeaten 72-run knock against England in a thrilling two-wicket victory in the second T20I in Chennai.

Tilak also broke Virat Kohli’s record to become the Indian batter with the most runs across four consecutive T20I innings, amassing an incredible 318 runs without being dismissed. This remarkable streak surpasses the previous bests of Virat Kohli (258), Sanju Samson (257), Rohit Sharma (253), and Shikhar Dhawan (252).

The left-hander, who had scored 19*, 120*, and 107* in his previous three T20I innings, delivered another masterclass, crafting an unbeaten 72 off 55 deliveries at Chepauk. His innings single-handedly secured India a 2-0 lead in the five-match series and took his T20I tally to 318 runs without being dismissed.

India vs England 2nd T20I Highlights

The record previously belonged to New Zealand’s Mark Chapman, who had amassed 271 runs without losing his wicket. Following Chapman are Shreyas Iyer (240), Aaron Finch (240), and David Warner (239) on the all-time list.

Tilak, however, remains unbeaten in T20Is and will have the opportunity to extend this extraordinary streak in the third match of the series. His unbeaten 72 (55 balls, 4 fours, 5 sixes) showcased his ability to handle the extreme pace of England’s bowlers and guide India to a target of 166, despite limited support from the other end.

Tilak’s innings was a mini-classic, especially given the relentless efforts of the England bowlers, who had made significant inroads early on. Pacer Jofra Archer became his prime target, with Tilak smashing four sixes off the Sussex bowler. Archer conceded 60 runs in his four overs, claiming only the wicket of Sanju Samson.

One of the standout moments of Tilak’s innings was a stunning inside-the-line six off Brydon Carse (3/29) over deep fine leg, highlighting his impressive shot selection and execution.

Despite the panic in India’s middle order, Tilak’s unwavering solidity saw the team through, as they finished the night at 166 for eight.