Hardik Pandya Hails Tilak Varma's Century in Mumbai Indians' Dominant Win

Mumbai Indians (MI) captain Hardik Pandya hailed the exceptional performance of Tilak Varma, who scored a decisive century in the team's dominant 99-run victory over Gujarat Titans (GT) during the IPL 2026. Pandya highlighted the significance of the match in MI's campaign and commended the team's collective efforts.

Discussing the challenges faced on Ahmedabad ground, Pandya remarked, "Very important. It is always challenging to go away and win. Also, Ahmedabad has not been a happy ground for the Mumbai Indians, so very satisfying." Varma's maiden IPL century, key to MI's 199/5 total, drew special praise as a timely and impactful innings.

Pandya addressed queries about Jasprit Bumrah not bowling with the new ball, clarifying, "Quite fascinating, I have seen many people asking why Jassi hasn't bowled with the new ball, but he hasn't done it maybe 7 or 8 times, so it is not a Hardik Pandya problem, it is Jassi being special." He further emphasized the effectiveness of their strategic bowling plans against Gujarat, as well as the impressive fielding efforts, notably from emerging players like Naman Dhir.

(With inputs from agencies.)