Tilak Varma Opens Up About Health Struggles Post IPL Debut

Tilak Varma's Health Journey After IPL Debut

New Delhi, October 23: Indian cricketer Tilak Varma shared his previously undisclosed health challenges following his first season in the Indian Premier League (IPL). He revealed that he faced hospitalization due to serious health issues and often prayed for his recovery and the chance to play again.

In an interview on the show 'Breakfast with Champions' hosted by Gaurav Kapur, Tilak reflected on his debut IPL season, where he scored 397 runs across 14 matches, averaging over 36 with a strike rate exceeding 131. His performance included two half-centuries, marking him as a standout player for the Mumbai Indians (MI) during a tough season.

After the IPL, he participated in India A's tour of Bangladesh, aiming to secure a place in the national Test team. However, he had to retire hurt while scoring 33* in the first match due to Rhabdomyolysis, a condition that caused muscle breakdown, necessitating hospitalization after he endured severe symptoms on the field.

Tilak expressed that any delay in receiving medical attention could have had dire consequences. Fortunately, he recovered in time to play in the next IPL season opener against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), where he achieved his highest score in the tournament with an unbeaten 84.

“After my first IPL, I encountered some health challenges. I was diagnosed with Rhabdomyolysis, which leads to muscle breakdown. I was determined to be fit and focused on my training, often neglecting recovery. I was pushing myself even on rest days, which ultimately led to my muscle issues,” he explained.

“During the A series in Bangladesh, I struggled to continue batting after 100 balls. My fingers were unresponsive, and I had to retire hurt. Thankfully, the Mumbai Indians support staff and BCCI were incredibly supportive. I was rushed to the hospital, where I learned that a delay could have been catastrophic. I prayed for my recovery and the opportunity to play again,” he added.

Since the 2022 season, Tilak has been a crucial part of MI's middle order, amassing 1,499 runs in 51 innings with an average of 37.47 and a strike rate of 144.41, including eight fifties.

Recently, he had a successful Asia Cup campaign, finishing as India's second-highest run-scorer and fourth overall, with 213 runs in six innings at an average of 71.00. His standout performance included a match-winning 69* against Pakistan in the final.

Tilak is set to showcase his skills during the T20I segment of India's tour of Australia starting October 29.