If there is one thing Tilak Varma does not lack against Pakistan, it is confidence. And when asked about his recent match-winning exploits against the arch-rivals, India’s T20I vice-captain had a cheeky reminder for everyone: he has done it before, too.Tilak’s unbeaten 51 off just 22 balls in the Asian Games final earlier this month helped India clinch the gold medal. But the left-hander was quick to point out that his latest heroics against Pakistan were hardly a one-off, recalling his unbeaten 69 in the Asia Cup 2025 final, which proved instrumental in India’s successful chase of 147.Speaking ahead of India’s fourth T20I against New Zealand at Eden Park in Auckland, Tilak was asked how much confidence his recent knock against Pakistan had given him while batting in the middle order.“(Performance against) Pakistan was good before too,” he replied, with a hint of humour.

‘I try to win the game’: Tilak on handling pressure

Tilak explained that batting at No. 5 to 7 often leaves him with limited opportunities, making it crucial to deliver when the team needs him most.“Whenever I go to bat at No. 5 to 7 in the lower order, I don’t get much batting. And even if I get it, I get it under a lot of pressure. So, till now, whenever I get a chance, I try to win the game. I try to finish the game,” he said.“It’s not like I was not scoring for 10 matches and then I scored against Pakistan straightaway. It didn’t happen like that. As it is said, I keep scoring. I remain focused on scoring runs for the team. I always want to help the team win,” he added.Tilak also credited the positive atmosphere and backing within the Indian team for allowing him to remain focused on his role.

Unbeaten record in T20 chases? Tilak knows pressure is inevitable

Tilak has also built a reputation for delivering under pressure, with an impressive record of remaining unbeaten in successful T20 chases. However, the left-hander admitted that nerves never completely disappear, regardless of experience.“I can’t say stress. There is always pressure and nerves. Till the last day of your cricket career, pressure will always be on you,” he said.“But it has become a habit to manage it. Every individual has a different way. Some people breathe. Some talk a little more in between to settle those nerves. So, every individual is different. I also have my own way,” he added.

India eye series-clinching win against New Zealand

Tilak’s comments came ahead of the fourth T20I between India and New Zealand at Eden Park in Auckland. With the series reaching a crucial stage, India will look to build on their performances and strengthen their position against the Black Caps.The short boundaries at Eden Park could make for another high-scoring contest, placing a premium on power-hitting and composure in the middle overs and at the death.For India, Tilak’s ability to absorb pressure and finish games could prove valuable as they look to maintain their momentum against New Zealand.