Sai Sudharsan’s Journey: From Local Talent to Gujarat Titans’ Anchor

Sai Sudharsan, Gujarat Titans’ batting pillar, has evolved from TNPL prodigy to IPL 2025’s Orange Cap contender.

Explore his journey, stats, and impact on GT’s title chase. Follow BRG365 for exclusive updates.

Early Days: A Sporting Legacy in the Making

Born on October 15, 2001, in Chennai, Sudharsan inherited his athleticism from his parents: father Bharadwaj, an Indian athlete who competed in the South Asian Games, and mother Usha Bharadwaj, a Tamil Nadu volleyball representative.

This sporting DNA fueled his passion for cricket from a young age, with his father acting as his first coach.

Sudharsan honed his skills in Chennai’s competitive club cricket circuit, representing teams like Triplicane Friends United CC and Alwarpet CC. His breakthrough came in 2019-20, where he scored 635 runs in the Rajah of Palayam Patti Shield Trophy, averaging 52.92.

This caught the attention of selectors, earning him a spot in the India A squad for the Under-19 Challenger Trophy alongside future stars like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Tilak Varma.

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Rise to IPL Stardom

As Sai Sudharsan made his IPL debut with Gujarat Titans, he was not just any rookie.

He had already shown his potential to adapt to high-pressure situations, and playing for a franchise like Gujarat Titans gave him the platform to display his skills on a global stage.

Sudharsan’s calm demeanor and tactical cricketing brain have been invaluable to Gujarat Titans, helping them build a balanced squad.

TNPL Breakthough

In 2021, Sudharsan exploded onto the national radar in the Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL). 

Playing for Lyca Kovai Kings, he amassed 358 runs in 8 innings at an average of 71.60 and a strike rate of 143.77, including a blistering 87 off 43 balls against Salem Spartans.

His ability to dominate spin and pace alike—with high-elbowed drives and innovative sweeps—drew comparisons to Washington Sundar.

This TNPL stint marked his arrival as a versatile batter.

He constructed innings in the middle overs while also finishing games with power, earning him a call-up to Tamil Nadu’s senior white-ball and Ranji Trophy teams.

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Domestic Dominance

Sudharsan’s domestic rise continued with consistent performances in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (35 off 19 balls vs. Maharashtra) and Vijay Hazare Trophy (46 off 31 balls vs. Kerala).

His adaptability against legspinners like Sudhesan Midhun and offspinners like Jalaj Saxena showcased his technical prowess.

In 2022, the Gujarat Titans signed him for his base price of INR 20 lakh. Though his debut season was modest (145 runs in 5 matches), he quickly became a vital cog in GT’s lineup.

By 2023, he starred in the IPL final, smashing 96 off 47 balls against Chennai Super Kings, propelling GT to the highest-ever IPL final total (214/4).

His innings, laced with 12 boundaries and 4 sixes, earned praise from legends like Sachin Tendulkar.

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IPL 2025: A Record-Breaking Campaign

In 2025, Sudharsan has elevated his game to new heights.

He became the fastest Indian to reach 2,000 T20 runs (54 innings), surpassing Sachin Tendulkar’s record.

His 504 runs in 10 matches (5 half-centuries) currently lead the Orange Cap race, with highlights including a 48-ball 96 against Royal Challengers Bangalore and a match-winning 52 off 36 balls vs. Kolkata Knight Riders.

His partnership with Shubman Gill has been pivotal, with the duo scripting a 210-run opening stand against CSK in 2024.

GT’s retention of Sudharsan for INR 8.5 crore ahead of 2025 reflects their faith in his leadership and consistency.

International Aspirations and County Cricket

Sudharsan’s domestic dominance translated to the international stage in 2023, where he made his ODI debut against South Africa, scoring 55* off 43 balls.

He continued his form in ODIs, averaging 63.50 in three matches.

Meanwhile, his stint with Surrey in the English County Championship—including a maiden century—has sharpened his adaptability to overseas conditions.

The GT Effect: Mentorship and Team Culture

Sudharsan credits GT’s environment for his growth. Captain Shubman Gill’s guidance and coach Ashish Nehra’s trust have allowed him to express himself freely.

“The team gives me a sense of belonging,” he said, highlighting how GT’s supportive culture has boosted his confidence.

With IPL 2025 in full swing, Sudharsan’s ability to anchor GT’s innings while accelerating at will makes him a nightmare for bowlers.

As he continues to rewrite records and inspire young cricketers, his journey—from Chennai’s streets to the IPL’s grandest stages—symbolizes the transformative power of talent and opportunity.

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IPL 2025: Sai Sudharsan Eases Past Sachin Tendulkar's All-Time Indian Record