In a match against the Lucknow Super Giants on Friday, Tilak Varma was not dismissed but was forced to leave the field under the retired out rule.
Sports News: Mumbai Indians batsman Tilak Varma became a topic of discussion in an IPL 2025 match when he was 'retired out' against the Lucknow Super Giants. This decision caused a stir among cricket fans, raising the question – what exactly is 'retired out'?
Tilak Varma became the fourth player in IPL history to be retired out under this rule. He had scored 25 runs off 23 balls but was unable to maintain a fast scoring rate in the final overs. Mumbai Indians, therefore, made a strategic decision to withdraw him from the field. Although he was not out, he was nonetheless 'retired out'.
What is the 'Retired Out' Rule?
In cricket, you often see a batsman leave the field mid-match due to injury. This is called "retired hurt," and the player can return to bat later. However, 'retired out' is completely different. In this case, the batsman is withdrawn for strategic reasons without being dismissed, and cannot bat again.
This decision is made by the team management and does not require the umpire's permission. However, under special circumstances, with the consent of the opposing captain and the umpire, the batsman may return, but only after the fall of the next wicket.
Who has been 'Retired Out' in the IPL?
1. R. Ashwin (2022) – Playing for Rajasthan Royals, Ashwin became the first player in IPL history to be retired out under this rule. This decision was entirely a strategic one.
2. Atharva Taide (2023) – This young Punjab Kings batsman was retired out in a match against Delhi Capitals. He was unable to score quickly, leading to the team's decision.
3. Sai Sudharsan (2023) – Playing for Gujarat Titans, Sudharsan was retired out under Hardik Pandya's captaincy. This decision was also made to increase the run rate.
4. Tilak Varma (2025) – Tilak Varma has now joined this list. After scoring only 25 runs off 23 balls, Mumbai Indians withdrew him to accelerate the scoring rate in the final overs.
Why is the Retired Out Decision Taken?
Need for big shots in the final overs
Replacing a slow striker to give the finisher a chance
Creating strategic pressure
Making a decision in the team's best interest based on match circumstances
'Retired out,' while seemingly controversial, has become a part of the evolving strategy in T20 cricket. As competition intensifies, teams seek to exploit every opportunity to increase their chances of winning.
