The Indian Premier League (IPL) has long been a proving ground for young cricketers vying for a spot in the Indian national team, and in the 2025 season, few have made a stronger case than Gujarat Titans’ opener Sai Sudharsan. His breathtaking 108 not out off 61 balls against Delhi Capitals on May 18, 2025, at the Arun Jaitley Stadium was not just a match-winning knock but a loud declaration of his readiness for international cricket. This article delves into Sudharsan’s stellar performance, his journey, and why his consistency and class make him a prime candidate for Team India.
A Masterclass in Delhi
The stage was set at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, a venue known for high-scoring encounters. Delhi Capitals, batting first, posted a formidable 199 for 3, thanks to KL Rahul’s unbeaten 112 off 65 balls. Chasing 200 was no easy task, but Sai Sudharsan, alongside his opening partner Shubman Gill, made it look effortless. The duo stitched an unbeaten 205-run partnership, with Sudharsan’s 108 not out and Gill’s 93 not out guiding Gujarat Titans to a historic 10-wicket victory—the first time a team chased 200 or more without losing a wicket in IPL history.
Sudharsan’s century came off 56 balls, punctuated by a six off Kuldeep Yadav to reach the milestone. His innings was a blend of elegance and aggression, featuring precise cover drives, deft wristwork, and powerful lofted shots. He sealed the chase with a towering six over long-on off Vipraj Nigam, showcasing his ability to finish games under pressure. This knock not only secured Gujarat Titans’ playoff berth but also propelled Sudharsan to the top of the IPL 2025 run-scorers’ list, claiming the Orange Cap with 617 runs in 12 matches.
The Making of Sai Sudharsan
Born on October 15, 2001, in Chennai, Bhardwaj Sai Sudharsan comes from a sporting family. His father was an athlete who represented India at the South Asian Games, and his mother played volleyball at the state level. Sudharsan’s cricketing journey began in Tamil Nadu’s age-group circuits, where his high-elbowed drives and ability to find gaps caught attention. His breakout came in the 2021 Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL), where he was the second-highest run-scorer, earning a call-up to Tamil Nadu’s white-ball sides.
Sudharsan’s domestic performances were equally impressive. In the 2022-23 Vijay Hazare Trophy, he amassed 610 runs in eight matches, including three centuries, at an average of over 76. His Ranji Trophy debut in 2022 saw him score 179 against Hyderabad, signaling his prowess in the longer format. These performances earned him an IPL contract with Gujarat Titans in 2022 for INR 20 lakh, a steal for a player who would soon become a cornerstone of their batting lineup.
IPL Stardom: A Steady Ascent
Sudharsan’s IPL journey has been a story of consistent growth. In his debut season in 2022, he scored 145 runs in five matches, including a maiden fifty. The 2023 season saw him elevate his game, amassing 362 runs in eight innings at an average of 51.71, with a memorable 96 off 47 balls in the final against Chennai Super Kings. Though Gujarat Titans fell short, Sudharsan’s knock announced his arrival on the big stage.
In IPL 2024, Sudharsan emerged as Gujarat Titans’ leading run-scorer with 527 runs in 12 innings, including a century against Chennai Super Kings. His ability to anchor innings while accelerating when needed made him indispensable. By IPL 2025, he had become the fastest Indian to reach 1,000 IPL runs (in 25 innings), a testament to his consistency and adaptability. His retention by Gujarat Titans for INR 8.50 crore ahead of the 2025 season underscored his value to the franchise.
Why Sudharsan Stands Out
Sudharsan’s batting is a refreshing throwback to classical strokeplay in an era dominated by power-hitting. Former India cricketer Ambati Rayudu praised his approach, noting, “He shows how the game can still be played in a traditional style—use the pace of the ball, play under your eyes, keep it along the ground, and play smart cricket.” Sudharsan’s strike rate of 152.19 in IPL 2025 may be lower than some top run-scorers, but his ability to bat long and build innings makes him a perfect foil for aggressive partners like Gill and Jos Buttler.
His versatility is another asset. Sudharsan can anchor chases, as seen in his 62 not out against Delhi Capitals in 2023, or accelerate, as evidenced by his 108 against the same team in 2025. He thrives under pressure, with multiple match-winning knocks, including a 52 off 36 balls against Kolkata Knight Riders in 2025, which earned him the Orange Cap. His ability to adapt to different conditions—whether it’s the pace-friendly Ahmedabad or the spin-friendly Kolkata—sets him apart.
The Case for Team India
Sudharsan’s performances have sparked widespread calls for his inclusion in Team India, particularly in white-ball formats. Social media platforms like X have been abuzz with fans and analysts praising his consistency and class. One user wrote, “Sai Sudharsan delivers a masterclass under pressure! A stunning century in the chase—calm, classy, and clutch. He deserves a place in the Indian squad without a doubt!” Another noted, “He has shown class and unreal consistency. @BCCI you have to give him a chance in international now.”
Sudharsan has already tasted international cricket, debuting in ODIs against South Africa in December 2023, where he scored 55* and 62 in his first two matches. He also played a T20I against Zimbabwe in 2024. However, with India’s top order crowded with stars like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Shubman Gill, breaking into the XI has been challenging. His IPL 2025 exploits, particularly the century against Delhi Capitals, have strengthened his case for a more permanent spot, especially in T20Is, where India is looking to build a squad for the future.
Comparisons and Future Prospects
Sudharsan’s style has drawn comparisons to a young Virat Kohli, with one X post stating, “Sai Sudharsan plays like what Virat Kohli was supposed to be in T20s—fast, fearless, and consistent.” While such comparisons may be premature, Sudharsan’s ability to combine aggression with solidity echoes Kohli’s early career. His record at the Narendra Modi Stadium, where he has five consecutive 50+ scores, further highlights his consistency at a single venue, a rare feat in T20 cricket.
Looking ahead, Sudharsan’s immediate challenge is to maintain his form in the IPL 2025 playoffs, where Gujarat Titans are well-positioned for a top-two finish. A strong showing could cement his status as a franchise star and bolster his international prospects. With India’s T20 World Cup squad selection looming, Sudharsan’s performances will be under scrutiny. His ability to perform against top-quality bowling, as demonstrated against Kuldeep Yadav and Mustafizur Rahman, suggests he is ready for the international stage.
In Summary
Sai Sudharsan’s 108 against Delhi Capitals was more than just a century; it was a statement of intent. At 23, he has already achieved what many aspire to—consistent performances in the IPL, domestic success, and a taste of international cricket. His elegant strokeplay, calm demeanor, and ability to deliver under pressure make him a standout talent. As Gujarat Titans march toward the IPL 2025 title, Sudharsan’s contributions will be pivotal. More importantly, his performances are knocking on the doors of Team India’s selectors, demanding a spot in the national setup. If his current trajectory continues, Sai Sudharsan is not just a star in the making—he’s a star already shining bright.
