Tilak Varma Reflects on Unusual Run-Out Incident in T20 Match Against West Indies

In a recent T20 match against the West Indies, Tilak Varma experienced a bizarre run-out that has since gone viral. Both he and Axar Patel mistakenly halted their run, believing the ball had reached the boundary due to a flash from the advertising hoardings. Varma reflects on the incident, sharing insights into the miscommunication that led to his dismissal. As the Indian team prepares for the next match, Varma emphasizes the lessons learned from this unusual moment on the field. Read on to discover more about this comedic cricket mishap.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 14, 2026, 15:13 IST

Tilak Varma Discusses His Unfortunate Run-Out

In a recent match at Holkar Stadium in Indore on October 11, Team India's vice-captain Tilak Varma spoke out about a peculiar run-out that occurred during their 14-run victory over the West Indies.

India set a commendable target of 223 runs, but the unusual run-out of Varma became the highlight of the game. Both he and Axar Patel halted their run midway, mistakenly believing that Patel's flick had crossed the boundary.

The incident unfolded in the 17th over when Gudakesh Motie bowled to Axar Patel, who sent a low full-toss towards deep backward square leg. Kamil Pooran's remarkable dive prevented the ball from reaching the boundary, flicking it back into play just in time.

Convinced that the ball had gone for four, both Varma and Patel paused, unaware of the impending danger.

The Run-Out Incident

As the throw came in from the field, Axar Patel managed to ground his bat, but Varma was caught off guard. Wicketkeeper Shai Hope swiftly threw the ball to Gudakesh Motie, who removed the bails, resulting in a stunning dismissal that left the crowd in disbelief.

Also Read: Tilak Varma on 'team first' approach, embraces middle-order role

Tilak Varma's Explanation

Ahead of the fourth T20I in Hyderabad, Varma addressed the viral incident, explaining that a sudden flash from the advertising hoardings misled both players into thinking the ball had touched the boundary.

"I thought the hoardings were just outside the boundary line, and when the flash occurred, I assumed it had touched them and come back in," Varma stated during a press conference.

"Both Axar and I felt the same, which is why we stopped simultaneously. It wasn't a case of one stopping before the other; we both believed there was a boundary, so we halted our run."

"Unfortunately, Axar turned to see the ball, but I was at the non-striker's end and couldn't see it due to my position," he added.

A Lesson Learned

Despite the mix-up, Varma acknowledged the incident as a learning experience. He humorously noted that he would have continued running had Axar shouted to him.

"If someone had yelled at Axar, our teammates were urging us to run, but Axar also thought it was a four," he explained.

"If Axar had called out, I would have run. I believed there was a boundary, which is why I stopped. But these things happen; next time, I won't stop if I think there's a boundary."

The Indian team aims to secure a 3-1 series lead, while the West Indies will strive to level the series and push for a deciding fifth T20I at M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on October 17.

Also Read: ICC reprimands West Indies' Powell, Rutherford for code of conduct breach