IPL 2025: Tilak Varma Emphasizes Experience Against Senior Players as Key for International Preparation

Synopsis

Tilak Varma of Mumbai Indians asserts that competing against elite international cricketers in IPL serves as vital preparation for international matches. He expresses excitement about playing in Hyderabad and discusses his bond with teammates and his aspirations for the season ahead.

Key Takeaways

Tilak Varma highlights the importance of IPL experience.
Playing alongside senior players boosts confidence.
Excited for the upcoming match in his hometown Hyderabad.
Varma shares his aspirations for the current season.
Strong chemistry with teammates aids performance.

New Delhi, April 23 (NationPress) Mumbai Indians (MI) left-handed batter Tilak Varma is of the opinion that competing against elite international cricketers in the Indian Premier League (IPL) serves as outstanding preparation for facing them in international cricket.

"I became part of Mumbai Indians in 2022, marking my fourth season with the team. I've had the privilege of playing alongside numerous senior and domestic players, which significantly boosts your confidence. The experience of facing numerous international-level players in the IPL greatly aids in transitioning to the international stage," Varma shared with JioStar.

MI is set to go head-to-head with SRH in Hyderabad, Varma’s hometown, and he expressed his enthusiasm for playing at his home ground on Wednesday evening. "Last year, when I played in Hyderabad for Mumbai Indians, I was merely heading out of the stadium for warm-ups when the crowd began chanting my name."

"I was taken aback; initially, I thought Rohit Bhai was behind me! It was indeed a special moment. I’m eager to experience that energy from my home crowd once again this year," he added.

When asked about MI's prolonged absence from the IPL trophy, Varma stated, "I often tell Rohit Bhai and Surya Bhai that I have yet to experience that victorious feeling. I joined in 2022, yet we haven’t claimed the trophy since then."

"Personally, the last three seasons have been fruitful for me, but the team hasn’t achieved the desired results. This year, we are optimistic and prepared to give our utmost effort—heart and soul," he further elaborated.

Varma then spoke about his rapport with MI captain Hardik Pandya and top-order batter Suryakumar Yadav, who are also his teammates in the national squad. "I share a very good bond with Hardik Bhai. I received my T20 debut cap from him.

"That moment was exceedingly special. We played alongside each other last year as well. He consistently supports players and communicates openly when issues arise. Our relationship is strong, and I’m hopeful for our success this year."

"We enjoy a solid connection both on and off the field. Surya Bhai fosters a highly positive atmosphere—whether in the Indian team or the Mumbai Indians team—and that positively impacts our performance on the field.

"We exhibit great coordination while running between wickets; sometimes, we don’t even need to call out to each other while running. That kind of chemistry off the field significantly assists on-field performance as well," he explained.

He concluded by discussing what he learns from the exceptional pacer Jasprit Bumrah. "He remains incredibly calm under pressure and is perpetually relaxed. Regardless of the situation, his demeanor remains unchanged. Even while bowling the 19th over in the World Cup final, it felt as if he was merely practicing in the nets. I admire this trait and strive to learn from it."