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Tilak Varma is still a game-winner for the Mumbai Indians, according to coach Mahela Jayawardene, even after his retirement following the team's defeat against the Lucknow Super Giants. MI made the decision to remove the southpaw by forcing him to retire out after Tilak found it difficult to get going in the match in Lucknow. Fans disapproved of MI management's choice to make Tilak the fourth player to retire in IPL history.
Mahela Jayawardene on Tilak Varma
Speaking prior to the RCB encounter, the MI coach Jayawardene reiterated his defense of the tactical call that he had made during the game.
"I know it's a taboo created by everyone. In the modern age, it's more tactical, and we will keep changing batting lineups to match up certain bowling line-ups," said Jayawardene.
Tilak batted well in the prior games, according to the MI coach, it was his decision to retire him out during the game against LSG.
"So I don't see how different that is. As a batter, I have had times when you go to bat, and you struggle to get through. He batted very well for us in last three games in tough situations and built important partnerships. That's the role with his experience that he brings to the game and I still value that. He was trying and couldn't get going in Lucknow. It was my decision, to throw someone else get to those two hits. Santner had done that in the last few games and was in good form," said Jayawardene.
Jayawardene predicted that the southpaw might go in and win the match for MI against RCB, claiming that the choice had nothing to do with Tilak.
"So, it was a tactical call and nothing to do with Tilak. Tomorrow, he will walk in and win the match for us. That's who Tilak is for us and there's so much value for him in our camp," said Jayawardene.
