Sai Sudharsan Recalls Childhood Bond With CSK Ahead of IPL 2026 Clash
Gujarat Titans top-order batter Sai Sudharsan prepares to face the franchise he grew up supporting as his team hosts the Chennai Super Kings at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Thursday’s match marks the final league-stage game of the 2026 Indian Premier League season for both teams.
Consistent Run-Scoring Form
Sudharsan enters the matchup maintaining a high level of offensive production. Following his 2025 Orange Cap campaign, where he accumulated 759 runs, the 24-year-old left-hander continues to anchor the Gujarat Titans lineup. Despite a slow start to the 2026 season, he has registered 554 runs in 13 matches, placing him fourth in the current run-scoring standings recognized by the Board of Control for Cricket in India.
Historic 2024 Century Against Chennai
The upcoming match carries weight for Sudharsan due to his past performances and personal history with the Chennai-based organization. In 2024, he recorded his maiden century against them at Ahmedabad, scoring 103 runs off 51 deliveries.
During that specific match, Sudharsan and Gujarat Titans captain Shubman Gill constructed a 210-run opening partnership. This effort equaled the all-time IPL record for the highest opening stand, originally established by KL Rahul and Quinton de Kock in 2022.
| Player/Partnership | Runs Scored | Balls Faced | Opponent | Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sai Sudharsan | 103 | 51 | Chennai Super Kings | 2024 |
| Shubman Gill | 104 | 55 | Chennai Super Kings | 2024 |
| Sudharsan & Gill Stand | 210 | 106 | Chennai Super Kings | 2024 |
Hometown Connection
Speaking to JioStar, Sudharsan detailed the emotional background attached to playing against Chennai. He noted that performing well against them holds special meaning due to his background as a fan.
“It wasn’t a conscious decision; I think it was the grace of God, and it came at the right time. But it’s always special to spend time in the middle, especially when I play against CSK because, whatever may be said and done, there’s a deep emotional connection with CSK for me,” Sudharsan stated.
He further elaborated on his early memories of the team.
“I grew up watching CSK play. We used to stand on the road just to watch the team bus pass by our school. Those are fantastic memories. I’m grateful to God that I’ve been able to deliver some memorable performances against CSK,” he added. Match statistics and career data can be verified via ESPNcricinfo.
Key Player Statistics for Sai Sudharsan
- Current Season: 554 runs in 13 matches (2026)
- Previous Season: 759 runs, Orange Cap winner (2025)
- Career Milestone: Maiden century against CSK (2024)