LSG vs MI: Why Was Tilak Varma Retired Out in the Last Over?

By Chirag - Apr 05, 2025 10:50 AM
Last updated on Apr 05, 2025 11:19 AM

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 has already sparked its first major controversy, and it involves a shocking tactical decision by the Mumbai Indians (MI) in their match against the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). At a crucial juncture, with MI needing 24 runs off seven balls, young batsman Tilak Varma was retired out at the non-striker's end, leaving fans and experts baffled.

What Exactly Happened?

Batting first, LSG posted a competitive 203/8, thanks to Mitchell Marsh (60 off 31) and Aiden Markram (53 off 38). In response, MI struggled early but recovered through Naman Dhir (46 off 24) and Suryakumar Yadav (67 off 43). However, after their dismissals, the chase relied on Hardik Pandya and Tilak Varma.

With 24 needed off seven balls, Tilak (25 off 23) suddenly walked off the field, retiring himself out. Mitchell Santner, a bowler not known for power-hitting, replaced him. Santner managed just two runs off two balls, and MI ultimately fell short by 12 runs.

Why Did Mumbai Indians Take This Decision?

Hardik Pandya defended the move post-match, stating:

"This was bound to happen because we needed to big hits. Tilak was not able to do that. There are days in cricket when you try your best but fail. The decision explains itself—we needed someone who could hit big, and Tilak wasn’t connecting well."

However, the decision backfired because:

1. Santner is Not a Power-Hitter – Unlike Kieron Pollard or Tim David, Santner isn’t a finisher.
2. Tilak’s T20 Record is Strong – With an IPL strike rate of 143+ and a T20 strike rate of 155+, he has the ability to accelerate.
3. Psychological Impact – The move visibly shocked MI dugout, with Suryakumar Yadav seen questioning coach Mahela Jayawardene.

Disaster for Mumbai Indians ?

? Tilak Varma retired out – why not trust him? ?
? Hardik Pandya kept strike, but gained nothing ?
? One wrong call at 18.5 overs – match gone!

A chase thrown away. Unbelievable.#LSGvsMI pic.twitter.com/rKKLghBKRf

— Indian Cricket Team (@incricketteam) April 4, 2025

Was It the Right Call?

• Yes, if… MI had a proven finisher waiting (like a Pollard or David), but Santner was not the ideal replacement.
• No, because… Tilak had the potential to explode, and disrupting momentum in a high-pressure chase was risky.

Past Instances of Retired Out in IPL

Tilak became only the fourth player in IPL history to be retired out:

1. R Ashwin (RR, 2022) – Tactical move.
2. Atharva Taide (PBKS, 2023) – Struggling batter replaced.
3. Sai Sudarshan (GT, 2023) – Similar tactical call.

Fan Reactions & Fallout

Social media erupted, with fans calling it an overthinking move. Some questioned Hardik’s leadership, while others blamed MI’s weak lower-order planning.

Conclusion: A Gamble That Failed

While retiring out can be a bold tactical move, MI’s execution was flawed. Tilak, despite a slow start, had the ability to turn the game. Replacing him with a non-hitter like Santner proved costly. If MI wants to revive their IPL 2025 campaign, they must rethink such high-risk strategies.

Also Read: Hardik Pandya Makes History as Captain in IPL 2025!

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