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Xtra Time Web Desk: Ajit Agarkar led selection committee’s move to pick Tilak Varma in the 17-member Indian squad for the upcoming Asia Cup 2023 has come in for mixed reactions. While many feel it was a brave yet smart decision, some think still needs time for such a big stage.

The selectors decided to pick Tilak Varma and Suryakumar Yadav along with Shreyas Iyer and K.L Rahul, both of whom are returning from long injury layoffs.

Tilak has impressed everyone for the last two seasons in IPL for Mumbai Indians. He showed great temperament in the recently concluded T20I series against West Indies. He was the top scorer for India with 173 runs.

The 20-year-old has played some aggressive strokes and looked positive with his intent. The manner in which he batted was a breath of fresh air.

Selection committee chairman Ajit Agarkar was quite impressed with Tilak, especially the way he batted in West Indies.

“He is part of the Asian Games. This is the squad for Asia Cup 2023. If he does make it to the World Cup squad, it becomes irrelevant. We saw some real promise in terms of not just performances but temperament as well. He is also a left hander. At the moment we have given the coach and captain an opportunity to see him,” said Agarkar during the press conference held in Delhi.