After a lukewarm performance in IPL 2025, young Indian batter Tilak Varma is gearing up for a fresh challenge — this time, far away from the glitz of the Indian Premier League. The 21-year-old left-handed batter has signed with Hampshire County Cricket Club and is expected to make his debut in the County Championship on June 22.

While Tilak may not have had a standout IPL season with Mumbai Indians, his selection by Hampshire underlines the growing recognition of his talent and temperament in red-ball cricket. With England’s county circuit providing a tough, skill-testing environment, this could be the perfect opportunity for Tilak to refine his game and bounce back stronger.

IPL 2025: A Quiet Season for Tilak

Tilak Varma, who has been considered one of the rising stars in Indian cricket, had a modest IPL 2025 campaign. Playing for Mumbai Indians, he managed to score just 343 runs across the tournament.

Batting average: 31.18

No standout knocks that turned games in his team’s favor

Struggled with consistency, which kept him away from being a dominant force in the MI lineup

Despite the average run, Tilak remains a highly promising prospect, especially when it comes to longer formats — and that’s where his county stint becomes crucial.

Hampshire Signs Tilak for County Championship

Tilak has now joined Hampshire County Cricket Club, a team with a rich history and competitive edge in English domestic cricket. According to official sources, he will be available for four County Championship matches.

Tilak is likely to make his county debut on June 22 against Essex County Cricket Club.

He becomes the second Indian player this week to sign a county deal — after Ruturaj Gaikwad, who joined Yorkshire.

Hampshire’s Director of Cricket Praises Tilak

Giles White, Hampshire’s Director of Cricket, expressed excitement over Tilak’s arrival:

“It’s fantastic to have Tilak available for the next four County Championship games. He’s a very talented cricketer, and we’re eager to see what he can bring to the team.”

This vote of confidence from Hampshire’s management shows they are betting big on Tilak’s ability to perform in red-ball conditions — a shift from the high-octane T20 world to the grind of county cricket.

A Look at Tilak Varma’s Red-Ball Credentials

While most fans know Tilak for his power-hitting in T20 cricket, his first-class record reveals a more complete, well-rounded batter.

Tilak Varma’s First-Class Career Stats:

Matches: 18

Runs: 1204

Batting Average: 50.16

Centuries: 5

Half-centuries: 4

Domestic Team: Hyderabad

These numbers are a testament to Tilak’s technique and maturity in longer formats. Averages over 50 in first-class cricket are often reserved for the most consistent performers — a sign that Tilak has the temperament to bat long and anchor innings.

T20 Star with a Bright Future

Even though IPL 2025 wasn’t his best, Tilak’s performances in T20 Internationals for India have been impressive.

T20Is played: 25

Total runs: 749

Centuries: 2

Half-centuries: 3

With explosive strokeplay, fearless intent, and the ability to shift gears, Tilak has already made his mark on the international T20 stage. But this shift to county cricket signals his desire to become a more complete cricketer — someone who can perform across formats and in different conditions.

Conclusion: A Crucial Turning Point for Tilak

Tilak Varma’s move to Hampshire comes at a crucial juncture in his young career. After a subdued IPL, the English summer offers him the chance to regroup, gain experience in seam-friendly conditions, and elevate his game in the red-ball arena.

If he can adapt well and score big runs for Hampshire, it may not just boost his confidence, but also catch the selectors’ eyes for India’s Test team — a dream many believe he’s capable of fulfilling.

Can Tilak Varma make his mark in county cricket and bounce back from his IPL slump? Time will tell — but one thing’s for sure: all eyes will be on June 22.