Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya said it was "about time" Tilak Varma delivered after the batter scored a thrilling century in a 99-run win over Gujarat Titans.

Varma, a member of India's T20 World Cup-winning squad, had managed only 23 runs across Mumbai's defeats in their four previous matches in this year's Indian Premier League.

But against Gujarat he came in at 44-3 and scored a thrilling 101 not out from 45 balls as the former champions posted 199-5.

"The kind of talent Tilak has, he does not need to worry about a lot," Hardik said.

"The only message I gave him was watch the ball and hit the ball.

"I genuinely believe the way the ball travels off his bat is something really special.

"It was much needed for the group, much needed for Tilak and much needed for Mumbai Indians."

Varma took only 19 from his first 22 balls but hit all 15 of his boundaries in his next 23 deliveries as he scored 82 more runs in the remainder of his innings.

The switch in tempo came immediately after the strategic timeout after 14 overs.

"Last five games haven't spent much time in middle," Varma said.

"This game I thought I wanted to spend time in middle. First 20 balls, ball by ball, I was just batting.

"I have got all of the fancy shots and when team needs I can use them, but under pressure all you need is to back your skills."