Yet, beyond the cloud of disappointment, the brilliance of Sai Sudharsan’s bat continues to shine. The young batter seems to have experienced the best IPL season of his career. Sai Sudharsan gave it his all.
But even so, he had to bid farewell with heartbreak as his companion. Despite his efforts, Gujarat’s fate could not be changed. Still, he emerged as a complete performer in the 18th edition of the Indian Premier League. He battled with some of the biggest names in the race to become the tournament’s highest run-scorer.
For young batter Sai Sudharsan, this may well have been the finest IPL season of his career. Through his consistent aggression, he established himself as one of the brightest emerging talents of the time. He once again showcased that aggression against the Mumbai Indians.
In the first eliminator, Mumbai posted a daunting total of 228 runs. To chase such a massive target, Gujarat had to launch a counter-attack from the very beginning. Sai Sudharsan took that responsibility upon himself.
Holding firm at one end, he kept Gujarat’s faint hopes alive. But the moment he got out, everything began to unravel. In his 49-ball 80-run innings, Sudharsan struck ten fours and one six. He played no unnecessary shots. Instead, he batted with textbook precision, yet maintained his aggressive intent throughout.
But with the end of that innings—played at nearly a 163 strike rate—Gujarat’s campaign too came to an end. In the final stretch, Sherfane Rutherford and Rahul Tewatia tried their best, but couldn’t turn the game in Gujarat’s favor. With a 20-run defeat, Gujarat’s journey in the 18th IPL came to a close.
Yet, beyond the cloud of sorrow, Sai Sudharsan’s bat continues to glow. As a reward for his consistent performances, he has now earned a place in India’s Test squad. Now it’s time for him to spread his wings—whether white or colored—and soar.
