IPL 2026: 'I focus on being versatile for whatever comes in front,' says Sai Sudharsan on his attitude as an opener
Chennai, April 26
Gujarat Titans opener Sai Sudharsan opened up on how adapting to the ever-evolving demands of T20 cricket has become central to modern batting, emphasising the importance of versatility and situational awareness as he reflected on his approach at the top of the order.
Speaking ahead of Gujarat Titans' clash against Chennai Super Kings at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Sudharsan, coming off a century in the previous outing against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, underlined his batting philosophy.
"As a team, me and Shubhi (Gill), we are focusing more on percentage cricket. We'll try and keep and push the team as much as front as possible. And what that means for us is giving them a very good base when they come in in 14th or 15th over," he told the broadcasters ahead of the toss.
Highlighting how the format is changing, he stressed the need for adaptability, saying, "T20 is evolving and as batters, we'll also have to evolve and be versatile enough for whatever comes in front of us at the situation. So I think I've focused on that and looking to play the situation rather than thinking this strike-rate I have to play. More focused on the situation and the conditions what is required."
Sudharsan also spoke about returning to a familiar venue and the emotions attached to the venue. "I'm catching up with them (family and friends) after the game, but very, very grateful and happy to be back at Chepauk."
Recalling his early days, he added, "I still remember this very place in front of me. When I was very young, I came here and just watched the ground that 'will I play in this ground?' That feeling was there, but really grateful to God for giving me this opportunity."
On the conditions in Chennai, the left-hander appeared unfazed by the heat. "It's actually not so hot. It's okay. And we practise day in, day out in this heat. So, we used to be, we have to be adapted to this."
— IANS
Reader Comments
Finally an opener who understands that run-a-ball is not enough in today's IPL. His century against RCB was pure class - timing, placement, and that calm head under pressure. India's future looks bright with players like him. Gill-Sudharsan combo is going to be lethal! 🏏
Love hearing young players talk about adaptability. It's not just about power-hitting anymore. His comment about playing the situation rather than chasing a strike rate target shows real cricketing intelligence. GT's scouting team deserves credit for finding talent like him.
Good to see a local boy doing well at Chepauk. His story about standing there as a kid dreaming of playing on this ground is so relatable for any aspiring cricketer. But I hope he works on his strike rotation on slower wickets - that's where the real test comes in the IPL.
This is exactly the mindset India needs in T20Is. Too many of our batters get stuck in one gear. Sudharsan's versatility is refreshing - he can anchor, accelerate, and even play the finisher role. The way he handled Bumrah in the previous season showed his class. Ab bas consistency maintain karni hai! 🙌
Impressive how grounded he remains despite the early success. The "grateful to God" bit shows his humility. With players like Sudharsan and Jaiswal coming through, Indian batting depth is frightening. Just needs to work on his power game against spinners on turning tracks.
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