‘I haven’t had that winning feeling yet’ – Tilak Varma wants to end MI’s IPL title drought

Tilak Varma, a local child, will be the centre of attention when the Mumbai Indians (MI) play Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in Match 41 of the IPL 2025 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium. The left-handed batter, who has been a standout player for MI since making his debut in 2022, is optimistic that they can finally end their title drought this year. Varma thinks the team’s return is stronger than ever as MI regains their footing following a dismal start.

After missing out on the playoffs in recent years, MI has frequently seen itself overtake a deficit and win the championship. This year started out with a similar trajectory, as the squad only won one of their first five games. MI has returned to the race, however, with a close 12-run victory against the Delhi Capitals and solid wins over the Chennai Super Kings and SRH that followed.

They are now sixth in the standings, but a victory over SRH on Wednesday might move them up to the top three. For Tilak, the match is significant not only because it takes place in Hyderabad, his hometown, but also because of what it signifies for the team.

I constantly let Rohit bhai and Surya bhai know that I still don’t feel like I’ve won. We haven’t won the trophy since I joined in 2022, though. For me, the past three seasons have been successful, but the squad hasn’t produced the outcomes we were hoping for. We are certain that we will give it everything we have this year, heart and soul,” he said exclusively on JioHotstar’s special series “Gen Bold.”

Tilak Varma: Surya bhai fosters such a good atmosphere

The southpaw credited his development, which has been aided by a solid support network, to the Mumbai team and captain Hardik Pandya. He also gave Suryakumar Yadav credit for fostering an atmosphere that is conducive to success on the pitch.

“Hardik bhai and I get along really well. When I made my T20 debut, he gave me my cap. What a unique experience that was. We also performed together the previous year. He honestly communicates if something goes wrong and always supports the players. Our relationship is excellent, and I hope that this year will be no exception. Both on and off the pitch, we get along great’, he remarked.

“Surya bhai fosters such a great atmosphere within the Mumbai Indians team as well as the Indian team, and it shows on the pitch. We communicate well with one another when rushing between wickets; in fact, there are occasions when we may communicate without even calling one another. Off-field relationships like that is really beneficial on the pitch as well’, Tilak continued.

When key players found their form, Mumbai’s previous performances followed suit. Mitchell Santner‘s spin, Trent Boult’s swing, and Jasprit Bumrah’s return to rhythm have all improved the bowling assault. Varma expressed his admiration for Bumrah’s composure and the abilities he contributes.

“He is always serene and incredibly calm under pressure. His face doesn’t show it in any circumstance. Even in the World Cup final, he seemed to be bowling in the nets as he bowled the 19th over. I respect that and try to take something away from it,” the child said.