Just one match after being controversially ‘retired out’ in a crunch clash against Lucknow Super Giants, Tilak Varma answered his critics with a fiery half-century against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Match 20 of IPL 2025 at Wankhede Stadium.
Varma smashed 56 off just 27 deliveries, hammering five boundaries and three sixes at a strike rate of 207.41, helping Mumbai Indians stay firmly in the hunt during a steep chase of 222. His fifty came with a pull through mid-wicket off Yash Dayal, marking a statement of intent after last match’s drama.
In the previous game, Varma was taken off the field after scoring 25 off 23 balls, a tactical move initiated by coach Mahela Jayawardene who said, “He was struggling… it wasn’t nice to take him out but I had to do that.” The decision sparked widespread debate across the cricketing community.
Tonight, Tilak let his bat do the talking, stitching an explosive 82-run partnership with Hardik Pandya in just 29 balls. From tactical sub to tactical game-changer — the left-hander flipped the narrative in just one match.
