Mumbai Indians (MI) star batter Tilak Varma’s maiden unbeaten century made headlines as Hardik Pandya’s side registered a dominant 99-run win against Gujarat Titans (GT) in their IPL 2026 clash in Ahmedabad on April 20.
During the post-match presentation, Player of the Match Tilak spoke about his approach and the significance of his maiden century. “Of course, first 100 will be always special,” Tilak said. “It was very important for us. We don’t have much time from here. Every game is important for us. Last five games ihaven’t had much time in the middle. So this game I wanted to spend time in the middle.”
After losing three early wickets, Tilak anchored Mumbai’s innings. He scored unbeaten 101 off just 45 balls, including eight fours and seven sixes, at a strike rate of 224.44. He was initially on 19 off 22 balls but then smashed 82 runs off the next 23 balls to shift the momentum of the game. This innings was also crucial for the 23-year-old, as he was struggling for form, managing only 43 runs in his last five matches for MI.
Explaining how he built his knock, Tilak added, “So you saw first 20 balls I was just batting ball by ball. And then later on I knew the ability I have. I was just seeing the situation and what the team needs and I was just stable and keeping my head still and following my basics. I have all the fancy shots. But when the team is under pressure it’s just about backing your skills and today it’s given me good results.”
Tilak and Naman Dhir stabilised Mumbai’s innings with a crucial 52-run stand. Reflecting on the partnership, he added, “It was very important. The way Naman played with positive intent, credit goes to him.”
It also turned out to be the joint-fastest IPL ton by an MI player. In 2008, Sanath Jayasuriya also hit a 45-ball century against Chennai Super Kings (CSK).
Mumbai will next welcome Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at their home ground, Wankhede Stadium, on April 23.
Also Read: Tilak Varma equals Sanath Jayasuriya’s record, smashes his maiden IPL ton in 45 balls
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