Mumbai Indians (MI) star batter Tilak Varma revealed the motivational chat with captain Hardik Pandya during the strategic timeout, which played a key role in his maiden unbeaten IPL century. MI sealed a dominant 99-run win over Gujarat Titans (GT) in Ahmedabad on April 20.
Speaking on JioHotstar after the match, Tilak revealed, “As everyone knows, Hardik bhai is very energetic. He was charged up and kept saying, ‘You can do it, you will do it,’ to boost me. I just asked him to calm down because I needed to stay focused, and I assured him that I would take care of the rest.”
After an early collapse, Tilak stabilised Mumbai’s innings. He remained unbeaten on 101 off 45 balls, including eight fours and seven sixes at a strike rate of 224.44. He stitched a crucial 81 run partnership with Hardik which pushed MI’s total to 199/5. The knock was also crucial for the 23-year-old who was struggling for form, managing only 43 runs from his last five matches.
During the post-match presentation, captain Hardik praised Tilak’s innings and highlighted its importance in lifting the confidence within the Mumbai camp. “The kind of talent Tilak has, he really doesn’t have to worry,” Hardik said. “So my message to him was just watch the ball and hit the ball. It was about time he came out and delivered. It was much needed for Tilak, the group and Mumbai Indians.
Mumbai will face Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at their home ground Wankhede Stadium on April 23.
Also Read: “First 100 will be always special” – Tilak Varma after match-winning century
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