The decision to retire out Tilak Varma (25 off 23 balls) when Mumbai Indians were chasing a target of 203 against Lucknow Super Giants, had created quite a controversy in IPL 2025. The decision, which MI coach Mahela Jayawardene later said was his call, did not go well with fans or former cricketers.

Jayawardene took full responsibility for subbing Tilak out, with the latter struggling to middle the ball despite spending plenty of time in the middle.

Tilak became just the fourth batter in IPL history to be retired out. However, the debatable move has not changed anything between the southpaw and his captain, Hardik Pandya.

"I have a very good relationship with Hardik bhai. I made my T20 debut and received my cap from him. That was a very special experience. We played together last year as well. He always backs players and communicates openly if something goes wrong. Our relationship is very good, and I’m hopeful we’ll continue to do well this year,” said Varma on JioHotStar.

On his bond with Suryakumar Yadav, the 24-year-old said: “We have a very good relationship both on and off the field. Surya bhai creates such a positive environment—be it in Indian team or in Mumbai Indians team—and that reflects on the field. We have a great understanding while running between wickets; sometimes, we don’t even need to give a call to each other while running between wickets. That kind of off-field chemistry really helps on the field too.”

On what he learns from Jasprit Bumrah: “He is extremely calm under pressure, always relaxed. No matter the situation, you don’t see it on his face."

"Even when he bowled the 19th over in the World Cup final, it felt like he was just bowling in the nets. I admire that and try to learn from it,” he concluded.

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