The IPL 2025 Eliminator between Gujarat Titans (GT) and Mumbai Indians (MI) at Mullanpur was a high-scoring affair, a true nail-biter that ultimately saw the Gujarat Titans’ journey in the tournament conclude with a 20-run defeat while chasing a massive 229. While Mumbai Indians rode on Rohit Sharma’s blistering 81 and powerful cameos to set a formidable target, it was Sai Sudharsan’s remarkable innings that stood out for Gujarat, showcasing his class and cementing his position as one of the brightest young talents in the league.
A Season of Records and Consistency
Sai Sudharsan had enjoyed a stellar IPL 2025 season even before the playoffs. He consistently anchored the Gujarat Titans’ batting line-up, accumulating an impressive 759 runs from 15 matches at an outstanding average of 54.21 and a healthy strike rate of 156.17. His season included five half-centuries and an unbeaten century (108 against Delhi Capitals)*. Notably, in the Eliminator against MI, he became the youngest player in IPL history to cross 700 runs in a single season, surpassing his captain Shubman Gill’s previous record. He also joined an elite club of only five batters in IPL history to score 750 or more runs in a single season, alongside legends like Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill, Jos Buttler, and David Warner.
The Daunting Chase and Early Setback
Mumbai Indians’ batting effort, led by Rohit Sharma’s 81 off 50 balls and quick contributions from Jonny Bairstow (47 off 22) and Suryakumar Yadav (33 off 20), set a challenging target of 229 runs. The chase for Gujarat Titans began with an immediate blow as their captain and key batter, Shubman Gill, fell for just 1 run in the very first over, trapped lbw by Trent Boult. This early dismissal could have easily rattled the chasing side and led to a collapse.
Sudharsan Stands Tall Amidst the Storm
However, Sai Sudharsan, opening the innings, showed immense composure and maturity beyond his years. He took on the responsibility of anchoring the innings, navigating the early swing and pace of Mumbai’s bowlers. He formed an initial 63-run partnership with Kusal Mendis, who contributed a quick 20 off 10 balls before being dismissed hit-wicket in the 7th over.
Sudharsan then found a dynamic partner in Washington Sundar, and together they stitched a crucial 84-run partnership off just 44 balls for the third wicket. While Sundar attacked aggressively, Sudharsan continued to play his elegant strokes, rotating the strike and finding boundaries with surgical precision. He reached his half-century in just 28 balls, showcasing his ability to accelerate when needed while maintaining a solid base.
His innings was characterized by brilliant timing and intelligent shot selection, as he kept the scoreboard moving against a strong MI bowling attack featuring the likes of Jasprit Bumrah and Trent Boult. He played fluently, ensuring that the pressure of the escalating required run rate didn’t become overwhelming.
The Heartbreaking Dismissal
Sai Sudharsan batted deep into the innings, keeping Gujarat Titans’ hopes alive. He scored a magnificent 80 runs off just 49 deliveries, an innings studded with boundaries and displaying his growing confidence and skill. His dismissal came in the 16th over by Richard Gleeson, where he attempted a scoop shot but missed, leading to his stumps being rattled. This crucial wicket, with GT at 175/4, significantly tilted the balance in Mumbai’s favour.
Despite his valiant effort, Gujarat Titans ultimately fell short, finishing at 208/6, losing the Eliminator by 20 runs.
Conclusion: A Season to Remember
While the Gujarat Titans’ IPL 2025 journey concluded in the Eliminator, Sai Sudharsan’s individual performance was nothing short of extraordinary. His 80-run knock in a high-pressure playoff chase against a strong bowling attack was a testament to his class, temperament, and remarkable consistency throughout the season.
He emerged as a consistent run-scorer, breaking records and joining elite company in the IPL. His ability to anchor the innings, accelerate when required, and perform under immense pressure highlights his potential to be a future star for both Gujarat Titans and Indian cricket. Despite the team’s exit, Sudharsan’s exceptional season will be remembered as one of the finest individual campaigns in IPL history, and he will undoubtedly be a player to watch in the years to come.
Last Updated : 31st May, 2025
Sourashis Chanda brings readers their unique perspective on Business, Economy, Health and Fitness. With a background in Health and Physical Fitness of 2years, I am dedicated to exploring [what they aim to achieve with their writing, on the sustainable Economy of the country, various pro tips about business, latest goverment news, with some tips in health are and Fitness.
- Sourashis Chandahttps://indiatadkha.com/author/sourashis/
- Sourashis Chandahttps://indiatadkha.com/author/sourashis/
- Sourashis Chandahttps://indiatadkha.com/author/sourashis/
- Sourashis Chandahttps://indiatadkha.com/author/sourashis/
