‘Papa Gaali Dete The’: Arshdeep Singh Recalls Father’s Tense Reaction During World Cup; Tilak Varma Embraces Role Flexibility
During a recent media interaction, Indian pacer Arshdeep Singh shared a candid and humorous anecdote regarding his family’s intensity during the T20 World Cup. While the Indian squad has shifted focus to upcoming challenges, the memories of their high-stakes campaign remain fresh, particularly regarding the crucial Super 8 fixture between South Africa and the West Indies.
Arshdeep’s Father and the Ahmedabad Watch Party
The fixture between South Africa and the West Indies held significant implications for the tournament’s progression. The Indian contingent, including head coach Gautam Gambhir and the players, tracked the game closely. Arshdeep revealed that his family, particularly his father Darshan Singh Aulakh, was far from calm while watching the broadcast.
“My family was in the room and when the West Indies batters were hitting, papa gaali dete the ki kya kar raha hai (father was abusing, asking what are they doing),” Arshdeep said with a smile. “So I was like, it’s okay, don’t be angry and just enjoy the match and hope South Africa win. If we play good cricket, the result will take care of itself.”
The tension was palpable as the West Indies recovered from a precarious start. A late onslaught by the lower order pushed the total to a competitive score, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. Ultimately, South Africa’s victory clarified the qualification scenarios, allowing the Indian team to focus solely on their performance.
Tilak Varma and the ‘Team First’ Philosophy
Shifting focus to the current squad dynamics, young left-hander Tilak Varma has been vocal about the team’s aggressive philosophy and role flexibility. In recent outings, Varma has demonstrated his adaptability, batting at various positions to suit the team’s tactical requirements.
Referencing the team’s strategic discussions, Tilak highlighted the clarity provided by the leadership group. “After the last game, we just as a team—and Gautam sir also said the same thing—that whatever the situation, just remind [ourselves] what brand of cricket we played since last year,” Tilak explained. “Whatever the situation, as individuals, just go out there and smile and enjoy the game.”
| Player | Role | Key Quote |
|---|---|---|
| Arshdeep Singh | Left-arm Pacer | “If we play good cricket, the result will take care of itself.” |
| Tilak Varma | Middle-order Batter | “Whatever the team needs, I’m up for it.” |
| Hardik Pandya | All-rounder | “It’s all about playing good cricket, backing your skill set.” |
Adapting to Different Roles
Tilak’s ability to shift gears was evident in his recent partnership with Hardik Pandya. Coming together in the middle overs, the duo accelerated the scoring rate, with Tilak contributing a quick-fire 44 off just 16 deliveries in a display of power-hitting usually reserved for the death overs.
“I always say that whatever team needs, I’m up for it. I’ve done the same role since the last four years in IPL for the Mumbai Indians,” Tilak stated. “According to the situation, I can adjust. I am pretty confident now that going forward I can win the games for the team.”
Maintaining Momentum
The atmosphere within the camp reflects a group high on confidence. During fielding drills and match situations, players have been seen engaging with the crowd, with chants for specific bowlers adding to the stadium’s energy. Hardik Pandya emphasized the importance of this mental space.
“We were keeping an eye [on other matches], but at the same point of time, once the game got over, we focused on the fact that this is our game,” Hardik remarked after a strong all-round showing. “We need to focus on this.”
For more official updates on the Indian cricket team, visit the BCCI Official Website or check the International Cricket Council for tournament standings.