Mumbai Indians' young sensation Tilak Varma made a highly successful return from injury, playing a pivotal role in India's 30-run warm-up win over South Africa. Varma struck a quickfire 45 runs off just 19 balls, seamlessly integrating back into the aggressive batting unit. His performance is a major boost for the national side and his IPL franchise, confirming his fitness ahead of the major tournament.
Speaking after the match, Varma expressed surprise and gratitude regarding his swift recovery timeline, crediting the BCCI and Centre of Excellence (CoE) for his accelerated return. His free-flowing knock, inspired by the team's aggressive approach, signals that the middle-order batter is in excellent touch and ready for the challenges ahead, alleviating previous injury concerns.
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“Didn’t expect to be back this early.”
Best average at Middle Order position in IPL 2025 (min 3 innings)
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Tilak was eventually dismissed by Shubham Ranjane in the 14th over. The Hyderabad batter scored 38 off 24 balls, belting three fours and two sixes. He was caught by the wicketkeeper, finishing with a strike rate of 158.33.
India’s middle-order batter Tilak Varma is also set to return after recovering from testicular surgery, which forced him to miss the New Zealand T20I series.
Ruled out of the first three T20Is against New Zealand, the India No. 3 could return for the fourth match. Team India's ODI vice-captain Shreyas Iyer has been added as cover meanwhile.

“Didn’t expect to be back this early.”