NEW DELHI, April 21 (Reuters) – Struggling with four straight losses, Mumbai Indians desperately needed a strong performance to turn their IPL campaign around. On Monday, batter Tilak Varma provided the spark they needed by scoring an unbeaten century against Gujarat Titans.
Varma, batting in the middle order, hit 101 runs off just 45 balls, leading the five-time champions to a convincing 99-run win. This victory moved them up from last place to seventh in the league standings.
Prior to this match, Varma’s best score in the season was 20. The young player acknowledged that timing his century at this critical stage was crucial for his team. He emphasized the importance of staying focused and following basic techniques during his innings.
Varma had been struggling to spend time on the crease, having gone five innings without scoring a six. However, against Gujarat’s strong bowling attack, which included Mohammed Siraj and Kagiso Rabada, he managed to hit seven sixes. He explained that he aimed to stay patient in the early stages and then played confidently once settled.
Mumbai captain Hardik Pandya praised Varma’s talent, saying he had full confidence in his ability to perform when given the chance. Pandya highlighted Varma’s unique batting style, which can produce spectacular shots when needed.
The partnership between Varma and Pandya yielded 81 runs, with Pandya supporting his teammate throughout the innings.