Indian Premier League (IPL) is no stranger to dramatic moments, but Mumbai Indians‘ (MI) decision to retire out Tilak Varma during their match against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in IPL 2025 has sparked widespread debate.

Tilak’s departure in the penultimate over of the high-stakes chase left fans and analysts questioning the rationale behind this rare and controversial move. Both Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya and head coach Mahela Jayawardene have since provided explanations for this tactical decision, shedding light on the thought process behind it.

Tilak Varma’s retired out: A rare occurrence in IPL history

Tilak became only the fourth player in IPL history to be retired out, a move that is still relatively uncommon in professional cricket. The decision came during Mumbai Indians’ chase of a daunting 204-run target set by Lucknow Super Giants at the Ekana Stadium in Lucknow. Tilak was batting on 25 off 23 balls when he was retired out with just seven balls remaining in the match. Despite his selfless exit, MI fell short by 12 runs, leaving many to wonder whether the gamble was worth it.

Batting at 25 off 23 in the run chase, #TilakVarma retired himself out to make way for Mitchell Santner! 🤯

Only the 4th time a batter has retired out in the IPL!

Watch LIVE action �http://t.co/nH2UGjQY0t #IPLonJioStar 👉 #LSGvMI, LIVE NOW on Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1�pic.twitter.com/NJ0C0F8MvL

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) April 4, 2025

Tilak’s struggles at the crease

Tilak entered the game as an Impact Player at a critical juncture, with MI positioned well at 86 for 3 in 8.1 overs. He formed a solid fourth-wicket partnership with Suryakumar Yadav, adding 66 runs off 48 balls. However, while Suryakumar batted fluently, scoring 46 off 30 balls, Tilak struggled to find his rhythm, managing just 17 runs off 18 deliveries during their stand.

After Suryakumar’s dismissal, MI needed 52 runs from the final 23 balls. Tilak scored eight runs off his last five balls but failed to accelerate effectively. His inability to find boundaries or rotate strike consistently led to mounting pressure on the team as they approached the final overs.

Also READ: IPL 2025: Fans react as MI captain Hardik Pandya fails to finish the game against LSG

Mahela Jayawardene’s perspective on the tactical call

Mumbai Indians head coach Mahela Jayawardene revealed that he was the architect behind the decision to retire out Tilak. Speaking after the match in the press conference, Jayawardene explained that while Tilak had spent significant time at the crease and was expected to find his rhythm, he continued to struggle with timing and acceleration. With just seven balls remaining and MI needing quick runs, Jayawardene felt it was necessary to bring in a fresh player who could potentially hit big shots under pressure.

“He just wanted to get going but he couldn’t. I waited till the last few overs hoping that he would find his rhythm because he had spent some time there. But I just felt that at the end, I needed someone fresh to go, and he was struggling. These things happen in cricket; not nice to take him out but I had to do that—it was a tactical decision at that point” Jayawardene stated.

Hardik Pandya’s support for the decision

Captain Pandya echoed Jayawardene’s sentiments during his post-match comments. He described Tilak’s struggles as “one of those days” when a player tries hard but fails to deliver under pressure. Hardik emphasized that the decision was “obvious” given MI’s dire need for quick runs in the final moments of the chase.

“We needed some hits, and he was not able to get them. Sometimes in cricket one of those days comes when you really want to try but it does not happen. The decision speaks for itself why we did it,” Pandya remarked.

Also READ: “It is a setback…� Mahela Jayawardene reveals 3 reasons behind MI’s loss against LSG in IPL 2025

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Mumbai Indians (MI) are ready to compete in IPL 2025 with a fresh determination and balance of veteran players and young guns. Having had a disappointing last season, finishing at the bottom of the table, MI are looking to bounce back and reassert their position as one of the league’s top teams.

With a revamped squad, the light is now on players who can carry the five-time champions on their shoulders. Among them is Tilak Varma, a player to keep an eye out for, but he is just one of a few.

5 players who will determine the fate of Mumbai Indians’ success this year

1) Tilak Varma: The emerging star

Tilak Varma has rapidly emerged as one of the brightest young stars in the IPL. Retained by Mumbai Indians for INR 8 crores, he has already made his mark with brilliant performances in the last three seasons. With 1,156 runs at an average of nearly 40 and a strike rate of 146.33, Varma has demonstrated his capability to score at a good pace and handle various batting spots.

His value to MI is that while he has batted down the order at times, his best position to play naturally is number three or four. This enables him to steady innings or push the scoring along when necessary. Varma’s recent performances for the Indian team also emphasize his ability and preparedness for high-pressure games. While MI looks to bounce back after a tough last season, Varma’s services will be paramount in steadying the batting order and offering consistent run-scoring.

2) Hardik Pandya: The all-round captain

Hardik Pandya returns as captain after serving a one-match suspension at the start of IPL 2025. Known for his explosive batting and impactful bowling, Pandya is one of MI’s most valuable players. His ability to finish games with aggressive batting makes him a key figure in tight matches.

Pandya is a leader who promotes aggressive gameplay, and the overall strategy at MI will gain from this as well. Being an experienced hand at leading India in all the formats also increases the value in his captaincy. With return from suspension, Pandya needs to find rhythm quickly in order to lead MI against strong challengers.

3) Deepak Chahar: The swing specialist

Deepak Chahar is a valuable asset to Mumbai Indians’ bowling unit this year after shifting from Chennai Super Kings. He is renowned for his lethal swing bowling and performs well in powerplay overs. Chahar can be especially dangerous on wickets that favour seam movement. His early wicket-taking skills can be a game-changer for MI’s bowling plan.

Chahar’s exposure to high-pressure cricket makes him a precious resource for MI’s team. He has been performing consistently in T20 cricket, displaying his ability to take wickets and control run rates conceded. His combination with other fast bowlers will be important as they look to restrict the opposing batsmen during key moments of the match. Chahar’s performances will play a significant role in helping MI assert itself with the ball, particularly in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah in the initial stages of the tournament.

4) Riyan Rickelton: The dynamic batter

Riyan Rickelton, the South African wicketkeeper-batter, is one of the thrilling new faces in Mumbai Indians this year. This aggressive batter has created news in domestic tournaments and T20 leagues globally. With his penchant for quick runs and out-of-the-box shots, he’s a promising recruit to MI’s batting arsenal.

Rickelton’s contribution will be especially significant since he can deliver explosive beginnings or boost scoring in middle overs. His versatility enables him to slot into different batting spots, which increases MI’s flexibility in their order. With experience playing with experienced players such as Rohit Sharma and Surya Kumar Yadav, Rickelton can emerge as a vital player for MI this season.

Also READ: Mumbai Indians (SWOT) analysis for IPL 2025

5) Trent Boult: The experienced campaigner

Trent Boult is yet another experienced player who provides depth to Mumbai’s bowling. With his ability to swing the new ball and pick up early wickets, Boult’s experience is a valuable asset, particularly when playing at grounds such as Wankhede Stadium, where fast bowlers may get favourable conditions.

His partnership with Chahar can create significant pressure on opposing batsmen during power plays. Boult’s ability to take wickets consistently sets a tone that can benefit MI throughout the tournament. With both Boult and Chahar leading the charge, MI’s bowling attack becomes one of the most formidable in the league.

Also READ: IPL 2025 – Mumbai Indians’ best playing XI and impact players

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Abhishek Sharma and Tilak Varma are two of the most exciting young talents in Indian cricket currently. Both players have showcased their potential in domestic cricket, the Indian Premier League (IPL), and for the national team, earning them recognition as future stars of Team India.

Abhishek is a dynamic left-handed batter and a handy left-arm spinner. Known for his aggressive batting style, Abhishek has the ability to dominate bowlers, especially during the powerplay overs when field restrictions are in place. His fearless approach and ability to score quickly make him a valuable asset in the shorter formats of the game. Recently, Abhishek smashed a tremendous century against England in the T20I series, which further proved his mettle in the shortest format.

Tilak, on the other hand, is a technically sound left-handed batter who has impressed with his ability to anchor the innings and accelerate when needed. Tilak has shown remarkable composure and temperament, particularly in the middle order, where he can stabilize the innings and then unleash his attacking shots. His performances in the T20I leg against England was impressive as the star batter finished with 133 runs in 5 games at an average of 44.33.

Sanjay Bangar names his choice

Former Indian cricketer and batting coach Sanjay Bangar has weighed in on the debate, regarding which player has a batter and secured future. Bangar went with Tilak as the future star of Team India. Bangar’s preference for Tilak is based on the young batter’s ability to perform in challenging situations, particularly in the middle overs when the field is spread out. Tilak’s calm demeanor and ability to adapt to different match situations make him a standout candidate for a long and successful international career.

“I would prefer Tilak Varma. Abhishek Sharma dominates when field restrictions are in place, but Tilak can be special even in the middle order when the field is spread out. His temperament is also excellent,” said Bangar on Star Sports.

Also READ: Abhishek Sharma’s father reveals how Brian Lara helped his son perfect the art of six-hitting

India’s future in safe hands

The future of Indian cricket looks incredibly bright, with a plethora of young talents ready to take the mantle from the current generation. Players like Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Tilak Varma, Abhishek Sharma, and Arshdeep Singh have already shown glimpses of their potential at the highest level.

Yashasvi has been a revelation in domestic cricket and the IPL, with his ability to score big runs consistently. While, Gill is already a mainstay in the Indian team across formats, known for his elegant stroke play and solid technique. Similarly, Arshdeep has emerged as a reliable left-arm pacer, capable of delivering in both the powerplay and death overs.

With such a talented pool of youngsters, Indian cricket is undoubtedly in safe hands. The competition for places in the national team is fierce, and these young players are pushing each other to raise their game, ensuring that the future of Indian cricket remains bright and promising.

Also READ: Abhishek Sharma’s girlfriend: Star India opener allegedly dating Laila Faisal

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Indian cricket sensation Tilak Varma has been in outstanding form, showcasing his talent with a spectacular performance in the second T20I of the ongoing five-match series against England.

In a nail-biting encounter at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, the 22-year-old batter played a match-winning knock, leading India to a narrow two-wicket victory over the visitors. Former Indian cricketer Dinesh Karthik, known for his wit and humour, jokingly requested Tilak, who represents Mumbai Indians (MI) in the IPL, to “be nice” against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in future matches, lightheartedly asking him not to play such brilliant innings against his team.

Tilak’s scintillating 72* off 55 balls was the backbone of India’s chase in the second T20I. With 4 fours and five sixes, his composed yet aggressive innings steered India through a tense chase to defeat England by a mere two wickets. The young batter’s performance was a testament to his growing stature in international cricket, especially in the T20 format, as he held his nerve when it mattered most.

Dinesh Karthik’s playful advice to Tilak

The former wicketkeeper-batter Karthik who represented RCB in the IPL and appointed as the team’s batting coach praised Tilak’s performance, highlighting his excellent understanding of the game and wishing him continued growth. He also humorously requested Tilak to be kind to RCB, as he often performs well against them.

“Brilliant innings, great understanding of what the situation required. Hats off to him. Really like him as a player. I just wish he grows from strength to strength. Be nice against RCB, Tilak. He always does well against us,” Karthik said on Cricbuzz

Also READ: IND vs ENG 2025: Parthiv Patel slams Hardik Pandya for taking too long to settle during Rajkot T20I

Additionally, Tilak has already proven himself as a formidable opponent in the IPL, particularly against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). His highest IPL score of 84 runs off just 46 balls, which included nine fours and four sixes, came in a spectacular innings against RCB. In total, Tilak has faced RCB three times in his career, accumulating 100 runs.

Tilak’s record-breaking streak in T20Is

Tilak’s 72 not out in the second T20I against England added another feather to his cap. The innings marked a new record for the most runs scored between two dismissals in T20I cricket among full-member nations. Since his dismissal for a mere 20 runs against South Africa in the second match of the T20I series in November 2024 at Gqeberha, the left handed batter has been in stunning form. His subsequent unbeaten scores include 107*, 120*, 19*, and 72*, amassing a total of 318 runs across four innings. This remarkable streak has surpassed the previous record of 271 runs held by New Zealand’s Mark Chapman in 2023, cementing Tilak’s reputation as one of the most consistent performers in T20I cricket in recent times.

Also READ: IND vs ENG 2025: R. Ashwin lauds Adil Rashid for trapping Tilak Varma in his web of spin during 3rd T20I

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India secured a nail-biting win in the second T20I against England on Saturday, taking a 2-0 lead in the five-match series. The match, held at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, saw an exceptional performance by the 22-year-old batter Tilak Varma, whose heroic knock of 72 off 55 balls steered the team to victory.

Indian team head coach Gautam Gambhir played a crucial role in motivating Varma with key advice before the match.

Tilak Varma shines with a match-winning knock against England

In a game that kept fans on the edge of their seats, India emerged victorious by two wickets. Chasing a fighting total, the team displayed resilience on a pitch that was two-paced and tricky for batters. Varma’s scintillating innings, which included 4 fours and five towering sixes, stood out as the cornerstone of India’s chase. His composed performance under pressure earned him the well-deserved Player of the Match award.

Varma, known for his flair and consistency, proved his mettle yet again. With wickets falling around him, Varma shouldered the responsibility and played a mature innings. His calculated aggression and ability to adapt to the situation highlighted his growing stature as a key player for India.

Also READ: Twitter reactions: Tilak Varma powers India to a 2-0 series lead over England in the T20Is

Gautam Gambhir’s words of wisdom to Tilak Varma ahead of the match

After his outstanding knock Varma credited Gambhir for shaping his approach to the game. Before the match, Gambhir advised him to adapt to the situation, emphasizing that if the team needed 10 runs per over, he should take charge, but to always bat sensibly. The 22-year-old acknowledged the importance of this guidance, especially with the wicket being two-paced and wickets falling quickly.

“First of all, the wicket was slightly two-paced and wickets were falling one after the other, so actually I was talking with Gautam Gambhir Sir yesterday, and he said that whatever happens, played according to the situation. What the team needs, do that. If you want 10 runs in an over, take the charge. Bat sensibly is what he said,” Varma said about Gambhir’s words in the post-match presentation ceremony.

Also READ: Ramandeep Singh, Shivam Dube added to India squad for remaining England T20Is

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Tilak Varma, with his rock-solid temperament and impeccable batting skills, has emerged as a centre of attention particularly after the second T20I against England in which he single-handedly turned the tide and saved the day for the Indian team. While the world got to know about his ability with the bat only recently, Varma has been one of the brightest emerging players of Indian cricket for some time now.

All you need to know about Tilak Varma

1. Humble beginnings and a rare Ranji Trophy appearance

Cricket was part and parcel of Varma’s life from a young age. As a child, Varma did not have the resources to go for private cricket coaching. But his first coach Salam Bayash, took care of his financial and equipment needs and made sure that a talented individual like him gets the opportunity to learn and play cricket. Varma made his first domestic appearance for Hyderabad during the 2018-19 match against Andhra Pradesh. He was only 16 years old at the time of his first-class debut.

2. A rare opportunity in the U-19 World Cup

After his first appearance for his domestic side, another positive development came in for the youngster next year in 2019 as he was selected in the Indian squad for the U-19 World Cup which reached the finals of the youth tournament only to get defeated by Bangladesh U-19 who were crowned winners that year. Varma scored 86 runs in 6 matches during the prestigious tournament.

3. A dream run in the 2021 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy

The next big moment in his career came when he represented Hyderabad in the 2021-22 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and scored 215 runs in 7 innings at a strike rate of 147.26. These statistics established him as the next big thing in the T20 circuit and paved the way for his future endevours.

4. The IPL saga

An impressive performance in the domestic T20 tournament paved the way for his entry into the Indian Premier League (IPL). In the year 2022, Mumbai Indians bought the youngster for INR 1.70 crore. In the debut season, Varma scored 397 runs followed by another emphatic run in the 2023 season in which he scored 343 runs in 11 innings and established himself as a regular starter in the coveted T20 league.

Also Read: IND vs ENG 2025: Tilak Varma sets a new record with his unbeaten knock during India’s thrilling win in 2nd T20I

5. His adventure with the national side

After his remarkable display with the bat in the domestic circle and for his IPL franchise, Varma featured for the national side for the first time in August 2023 against the West Indies. Varma’s 39 off 22 in his debut match was instrumental during the Indian innings, even though India fell short of the target by 4 runs.

6. A regular starter in India’s T20I side:

Through his emphatic performances and match-winning abilities, the 22-year-old has cemented his place as a regular starter in the Indian team. Varma has played a total of 21 T20I matches for India and made 707 runs with a strike rate of 156.07.

7. A memorable tour of South Africa

A key highlight in Varma’s career was last year’s tour to South Africa. In a remarkable display of his batting, the youngster scored 2 unbeaten centuries throughout the series. First at Centurion where he scored 107 runs off 97 balls and another one in the next match at Johannesburg, where he scored a remarkable 120 runs off 69 balls.

8. A discreet family life

Varma’s parents, Namboori Nagaraju, an electrician, and Gayatri Devi, a homemaker, currently live in Hyderabad. Varma comes from a weak financial background, but his parents always supported his ambition of playing cricket and one day represent India. He also has an elder brother named Tarun Varma.

9. Revealing his spiritual side through tattoos

Apart from several memorable innings throughout his career. Varma also has a deep affinity for his religion and spirituality. These are evident through several tattoos that the youngster has on his body. The list includes a Shiva tattoo, a Lord Ganesha one, Om Namah Shivay; the holy chant of Lord Shiva, and a Hibiscus Bunch inked on his body.

10. Significant admirers in the Indian team

Varma’s ability is well-known within the Indian team. Indian ODI and Test skipper Rohit Sharma once proclaimed that he would one day be an all-format player for India; at that time, Varma was only 19 years old.

Tilak’s relationship with T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadav and his wife Devisha Shetty is also very special. The couple and the youngster get along well and have been found dining together in the past.

Also Read: 10 lesser-known facts about Pakistan’s young batter Mohammad Huraira

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India registered a thrilling two-wicket win over England in the second T20I of the five-match series at Chennai’s MA Chidambaram Stadium on Saturday, thanks to an unbeaten and record-breaking knock by Tilak Varma. His exceptional innings not only led India to a 2-0 lead in the five-match series but also earned him a unique spot in T20I history.

Chasing a target of 166, India faced consistent setbacks as England’s Brydon Carse wreaked havoc with figures of 3/29. The hosts found themselves struggling at 146-8, needing 20 runs off the last 18 balls. However, Varma’s calm and composed 72 not out off 55 balls, laced with 4 fours and 5 sixes, ensured India crossed the finish line with four balls to spare.

Varma received crucial support from No. 10 batter Ravi Bishnoi, who contributed an invaluable nine runs, including two vital boundaries during their unbroken 20-run partnership. Together, they overcame England’s disciplined bowling attack to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat.

Tilak Varma’s record-breaking streak

Varma’s innings also saw him set a new record for the most runs scored between two dismissals in T20Is among full-member nations. Since his dismissal for 20 against South Africa in Gqeberha, Varma’s subsequent scores read 107*, 120*, 19* and 72*, amassing an astounding 318 runs across four unbeaten innings. This achievement surpassed the previous record of 271 runs created by New Zealand’s Mark Chapman in 2023.

Also READ: Twitter reactions – Tilak Varma powers India to a 2-0 series lead over England in the T20Is

Players with most runs between two dismissals (Full-member teams):

318 – Tilak Varma* (107*, 120*, 19*, 72*)
271 – Mark Chapman (65*, 16*, 71*, 104*, 15)
240 – Aaron Finch (68*, 172)
240 – Shreyas Iyer (57*, 74*, 73*, 36)
239 – David Warner (100*, 60*, 57*, 2*, 20)

India eye series domination

With three matches left in the series, India holds the upper hand, thanks to Varma’s consistency and the team’s resilience under pressure. As the series progresses, all eyes will be on the young left-hander to see if he can extend his incredible record.

This victory further highlights India’s bench strength and their ability to pull off tight wins under challenging conditions.

Also READ: Ramandeep Singh, Shivam Dube added to India squad for remaining England T20Is

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