Young batter from Tamil Nadu Sai Sudharsan made his much-awaited debut for the Indian cricket team and he made an immediate impact in his ODI debut, showcasing his skills by scoring a boundary off his very first international delivery. In his debut ODI against South Africa at Johannesburg’s New Wanderers Stadium, Sai Sudharsan played a key role for India in chasing the modest target.
Sai Sudharsan Penned An Emotional Note After Memorable Debut
The Men in Blue successfully chased down 117 in a mere 16.4 overs, with experienced batsman Shreyas Iyer forming a crucial partnership with the debutant. Sudharsan now joins the ranks as the fourth Indian opener to score 50 or more runs on their ODI debut.
In his debut match, Sai Sudharsan showcased his batting prowess by smashing an unbeaten 55 off 43 balls in the 1st ODI against South Africa. The left-handed batter’s knock was marked by fluent strokeplay, as he accumulated nine boundaries at an impressive strike rate of 127.91. Sudharsan displayed composure and adaptability against both front and back-foot deliveries, proving his versatility at the crease.
According to Cricbuzz, Sudharsan has become the fourth Indian opener to score 50 or more runs on their ODI debut, joining the likes of Robin Uthappa, KL Rahul, and Faiz Fazal. Overall, Sudharsan is the 17th Indian to achieve this milestone in ODI debuts.
Meanwhile, after the match, Sai Sudharsan took to his social media to share an emotional message, expressing the fulfillment of his childhood dream of representing Team India. He wrote:
“Growing up as a small kid like everybody I also dreamt of playing for the country. So with hardwork n grit dreams do come true. Blessed to represent the country and contribute for the team. Looking forward to lots of memories. ✨ Special to receive the cap from @klrahul Bhai & it was amazing to bat with @ShreyasIyer15 Bhai. ❤️”
Check out the tweet:
Growing up as a small kid like everybody I also dreamt of playing for the country. So with hardwork n grit dreams do come true. 🇮🇳
Blessed to represent the country and contribute for the team. Looking forward to lots of memories. ✨
Special to receive the cap from @klrahul Bhai… pic.twitter.com/CBs24oMAaV
— Sai Sudharsan (@sais_1509) December 17, 2023
Talking about the match, South Africa chose to bat, but the decision proved costly as Indian pacers Arshdeep and Avesh Khan wreaked havoc. Only De Zorzi (28 in 22 balls) and Phehlukwayo (33 in 49 balls) managed respectable scores as South Africa collapsed for 116 in 27.3 overs. Arshdeep (5/37) and Avesh (4/27) starred for India, while spinner Kuldeep Yadav secured one wicket.
Chasing 117, India lost Ruturaj Gaikwad early, but debutant Sai Sudarshan (55 in 43 balls) and Shreyas Iyer (52 in 45 balls) guided India to victory with over 33 overs remaining. Wiaan Mulder and Andile Phehlukwayo claimed a wicket each. Arshdeep was named the ‘Player of the Match’ for his stellar bowling performance. The win underscored India’s dominance in the match, wrapping up the proceedings with efficiency.
