Witness Sai Sudharsan’s record-breaking 96 as Gujarat Titans battled Chennai Super Kings in the rain-interrupted IPL Final 2023.
Despite CSK’s last-ball triumph, GT’s youth and resilience shone, with Shubman Gill’s Orange Cap and Ruturaj Gaikwad’s explosive start adding drama.
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Stage is Set: A Clash of Titans
The IPL Final 2023was more than a title decider; it was a clash of eras. GT, led by Hardik Pandya, arrived as the young guns, fresh off their maiden title win.
CSK, captained by the iconic MS Dhoni, aimed to equal Mumbai Indians’ record of five IPL titles.
The stakes were sky-high, and the stage—India’s largest stadium—was packed with 104,859 fans eager to witness history.
GT’s lineup boasted Orange Cap holder Shubman Gill (890 runs in 2023) and rookie sensation Sai Sudharsan, while CSK relied on Ruturaj Gaikwad’s explosive starts and Ravindra Jadeja’s all-round brilliance.
The match was initially scheduled for May 28 but was washed out due to rain, adding drama to the already intense buildup.
Read More: Gujarat Titans’ 2022 Final: A Rookie Team’s Unbelievable Run to Be IPL Trophy Winners
Sudharsan’s Heroics
When the match resumed on May 29, GT won the toss and elected to bat. The Titans’ innings began cautiously, with Gill dismissed for 39 after a stunning stumping by Dhoni.
Enter Sai Sudharsan—a 21-year-old rookie whose 96* off 47 balls (8 fours, 6 sixes) rewrote IPL Final records.
His partnership with Wriddhiman Saha (54) steadied GT, and his late onslaught propelled them to 214/4—the highest total in IPL Final history.
Sudharsan’s innings wasn’t just a statistical feat; it was a display of composure. He absorbed pressure, attacked Chennai’s spinners, and nearly single-handedly turned the tide.
His 96* remains the highest score by a debutant in an IPL Final, earning him the “Player of the Final” award despite the loss.
Read More: Sai Sudharsan's Journey: From Local Talent to Gujarat Titans Star
Rain, Drama, and Jadeja’s Last-Ball
CSK’s chase began under the shadow of rain. After early interruptions, the match was reduced to 15 overs, with CSK needing 171 runs.
Openers Ruturaj Gaikwad (26) and Devon Conway (47) set a blistering pace, but GT fought back through Noor Ahmad’s two quick wickets.
The game swung wildly in the final overs. Ajinkya Rahane’s sixes and Shivam Dube’s late onslaught kept CSK in contention.
With 10 runs needed off the last two balls, Jadeja smashed a six and a four off Mohit Sharma, sealing CSK’s fifth title in dramatic fashion.
Key Stats from the IPL Final 2023
|
Player |
Runs/Wickets |
Key Contribution |
|---|---|---|
|
Sai Sudharsan |
96* (47 balls) |
Highest debutant score in IPL Final |
|
Shubman Gill |
39 |
Orange Cap winner (890 runs) |
|
Ravindra Jadeja |
15* (6 balls) |
Match-winning six and four |
|
Mohammed Shami |
2/34 |
Purple Cap winner (28 wickets) |
|
Ruturaj Gaikwad |
26 |
Explosive start in chase |
Growth Amidst Glory
While GT’s bid to defend their title fell short, the IPL Final 2023 highlighted their potential. Sudharsan’s rise from a bench player to a match-winner symbolized GT’s youth-centric strategy.
Shubman Gill’s consistency (3 centuries in 2023) solidified his status as a global star, while Mohammed Shami’s Purple Cap (28 wickets) underscored GT’s bowling depth.
However, GT’s weaknesses were exposed. The middle order’s inability to support Sudharsan, combined with inconsistent bowling in the death overs, proved costly.
Captain Hardik Pandya later acknowledged the need for “adaptability in pressure situations” as they prepare for future challenges.
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A Lasting Legacy
The IPL Final 2023 will be remembered for Sudharsan’s brilliance, Jadeja’s heroics, and the rain that added a layer of unpredictability.
It was a clash that united fans, a testament to cricket’s power to inspire.
While CSK lifted the trophy, GT’s journey in the IPL Final 2023 became a story of courage—a reminder that true champions are forged in the fire of defeat.
Looking Ahead to IPL 2025
As the dust settles on the 2023 IPL Final, GT is already eyeing redemption. The team’s focus has shifted to IPL 2025, with rumors of strategic signings to bolster their middle order.
Young talents like Noor Ahmad and Yash Dayal are expected to play pivotal roles, while Sudharsan’s growth will be crucial.
For CSK, the victory marked a return to dominance, but GT’s performance reminded the cricketing world of their potential.
The IPL Final 2023 wasn’t just a loss—it was a stepping stone. As Pandya noted, “We didn’t win the trophy, but we won belief.”
Also Read: CSK vs GT IPL 2023 Final: Chennai Super Kings vs Gujarat Titans moved to reserve day
