Delhi: Mumbai Indians (Mi) head coach and former Sri Lankan captain Mahela Jayawardene has given a big statement about Tilak Verma. During the match against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), on retiring, Jayawardene has fully supported Tilak amid controversy and said that he is still a big match winner for the team.
Tilak Verma did not appear in rhythm in the match played in Lucknow and Mumbai Indians took a strategic decision and retired him out. Tilak Verma became only the fourth player in IPL history, who was removed in this way. However, the fans criticized the decision, but coach Jayawardene described it as a ‘tactical call’.
Before the match against RCB, Jayawardene said, “I know it has become a controversy, but in today’s modern cricket it is a strategic step. We will continue to change our batting line-up according to opposition bowling.”
Jayawardene told that Tilak batted well in the last three matches and played important partnerships. He further said, “He was not in rhythm in Lucknow. It was my decision to give a chance to a batsman who can put two big shots. Santner has done this in the last few matches and he is in good form.”
Jayawardene clarified that the decision of retiring out was not against Tilak Verma and he is still considered very important in the team. The coach said, “This decision was not against Tilak. Tomorrow he will come and win the match for us. Tilak is a very important player for us and he has a lot of value in the team.”
Currently, Mumbai Indians are ranked 8th in the IPL 2025 points table and the team is in dire need to win every match.
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