India, Dec. 14 -- dia's middle-order shuffle has come under the scanner after their defeat in the second T20I against South Africa, especially the call to send Axar Patel up to number three.

But Tilak Varma, fresh off a fighting 62 in that loss, has doubled down on the team's messaging: role can change, and the batting order is meant to stay fluid.

Speaking ahead of the third T20I in Dharamshala on December 14, Varma made it clear he's not married to a number, only the situation.

"Everyone is flexible, except openers. I'm up for batting at 3,4,5, or 6, wherever I get a chance. Everyone knows that everyone is flexible in order," said Varma.

The scrutiny intensified because Axar's promotion didn't fully click in the second game; he made...