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'There must be a reason for it' – Dinesh Karthik on Tilak Varma's promotion in India's record chase vs New Zealand

India achieved their highest successful T20I run chase on October 22, 2026, by overcoming a 226-run target against New Zealand with four wickets and two balls to spare. Dinesh Karthik praised the clinical nature of the pursuit but questioned the tactical decision to promote Tilak Varma to the third batting position over Ishan Kishan, who was dismissed for one run after Varma fell for six.

Karthik suggested the move might have been intended to provide Varma with crease time or was necessitated by Kishan being off the field earlier in the match.

Naman Dhir was credited for his effective pacing during the latter stages of the innings, while the presence of Nitish Kumar Reddy at number eight provided crucial batting depth. Shreyas Iyer was also noted for his significant contributions during the middle overs of the successful chase.

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