Indian cricketer Tilak Varma recently opened up about a major health crisis he faced early in his career. The 22-year-old, who played a key role in India’s Asia Cup 2025 victory, revealed for the first time that he was diagnosed with rhabdomyolysis in 2022—a rare and serious condition that causes rapid muscle breakdown.

Speaking on the show Breakfast with Champions, Tilak shared that the issue began soon after his first IPL season. Driven by a strong desire to improve his fitness and fielding, he admitted to overtraining without giving his body adequate rest. “Even on rest days, I would be in the gym. I wanted to be the fittest player and an excellent fielder,” he said. Despite taking ice baths, his lack of proper recovery led to muscle overstrain.

Tilak recalled the frightening moment during an A series in Bangladesh when his body finally gave out. “I had pushed myself for a hundred, but suddenly my eyes started tearing up and my fingers stopped working. Everything felt like stone. I had to retire hurt and my gloves had to be cut off because my fingers weren’t moving,” he revealed.

The situation quickly escalated, but immediate medical help prevented further damage. Tilak expressed heartfelt gratitude to Mumbai Indians’ management and franchise owner Akash Ambani, who promptly contacted BCCI Secretary Jay Shah to ensure he received top-class treatment. Doctors later told him that any delay in hospitalization could have been life-threatening.

Now fully recovered, Tilak continues to be a vital part of the Mumbai Indians setup and has become a regular in the Indian national team. His determination and resilience culminated in a memorable performance in the Asia Cup 2025 final against Pakistan, where his match-winning innings sealed India’s triumph. (With inputs from Agencies)