IPL 2026: Hardik Pandya motives players with his energy, says Tilak Varma

Ever since being an integral member of India’s T20 World Cup title defence, Tilak Varma had endured a quiet run in the Indian Premier League. On Wednesday, however, after rediscovering his touch and helping Mumbai Indians snap a four-match losing streak, Tilak offered a glimpse into the contrasting captaincy styles he has experienced this season.

“To be honest, Surya (Suryakumar Yadav, India captain) was a bit tactical. And Hardik bhai (Pandya), he always backs the players and himself. If you see the last game, he was saying ‘you will do it, you will do it’ and show it,” Tilak said ahead of MI’s clash against Chennai Super Kings.

“Many people have asked me what Hardik was talking to you. He keeps motivating the players. He motivates the players with his energy. Hardik bhai’s captaincy is the same. It’s kind of that energy. And Surya bhai is more into the tactical side. So, both are good in their aspects. And I am enjoying Surya bhai’s captaincy and I am enjoying Hardik bhai’s captaincy as well.”

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Tilak’s words came on the back of a defining knock in Ahmedabad, where he hammered an unbeaten 101 off 47 balls — an innings that turned the tide after a slow start of 19 off 22 deliveries.

He credited Rohit Sharma for helping him navigate the early phase. “I was talking especially with Rohit Bhai. He was saying to me that, we know and everyone knows what you can do after playing those 15-20 balls, so just do this,” Tilak said.

“Don’t look at the situation. Don’t look at anything. First, play 15 balls. And after that, whatever happens, we’ll see. That gave me confidence.”

Published on Apr 22, 2026