Tilak Varma returned to a hero’s welcome in Hyderabad after his match-winning knock in the Asia Cup 2025 final, where India defeated arch-rivals Pakistan by five wickets to clinch their ninth title. The young left-hander was named Player of the Match for his unbeaten 69, a knock that steadied India’s chase of 147 and sealed a memorable victory.

The atmosphere was electric as fans thronged to greet their local star, showering him with cheers, garlands, and chants of “Chak De India.” Tilak’s innings had been the backbone of India’s run chase after the team stumbled to 20/3 inside the power play.

Under immense pressure, the southpaw first built a cautious stand with Sanju Samson, who chipped in with 20, before joining forces with Shivam Dube for a crucial middle-order rescue act. With 10 needed off the final over, Tilak launched a towering six off Haris Rauf before rotating the strike, paving the way for Rinku Singh to strike the winning boundary.

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Despite relentless sledging from the Pakistani players, Tilak stayed calm, only letting his emotions flow after victory was secured. Post-match, he credited his batting partners and head coach Gautam Gambhir for their guidance.

VIDEO | The hero of Asia Cup final Tilak Varma (@TilakV9) gets rousing welcome with crowd greeting him with beats of drums upon his arrival at Hyderabad airport.

The batter walked in during chase at a crucial time when Indian team was tottering at three wickets down during their… pic.twitter.com/p1XZwT0LmE

— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) September 29, 2025

“There was pressure, but I wanted to stay till the end,” Tilak Varma said. “Samson’s knock was vital, and the way Dube batted gave me confidence. Gautam bhai has always stressed being flexible in the order, and I worked hard on my sweep shots and running between wickets. This is one of the most special knocks of my life.”

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For Indian fans, Tilak’s words summed up the spirit of the final—a blend of composure, teamwork, and fearless cricket. His performance not only delivered a trophy but also cemented his place as one of India’s brightest young match-winners.