Gujarat Titans (GT) rising star Sai Sudharsan recently chatted with veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin on his YouTube channel. During this engaging conversation, Sudharsan was given a unique challenge: to create an IPL Playing XI that only includes players from before the T20 era. Sticking to IPL rules, he needed to choose seven Indian players and four from overseas, along with a substitute. His final team showcases a mix of classic flair and exceptional bowling talent.
Kapil Dev as captain, Don Bradman at number 4: Sai Sudharsan’s pre-T20 IPL dream XI
Sudharsan’s team features iconic cricketing legends, spearheaded by none other than Don Bradman and captained by India’s first World Cup-winning captain.
- The Top Order: He chose a dynamic opening pair with Kris Srikkanth and Navjot Singh Sidhu, followed by wicketkeeper Farokh Engineer at number three. The legendary Sir Don Bradman took the number four position to stabilize the middle order.
- The All-Rounders: The team includes all-rounders like former India coach Ravi Shastri, South African finisher Lance Klusener, and Kapil Dev, who also serves as the team’s captain.
- The Bowling Lineup: The bowling attack is impressive, featuring the ‘Swing King’ Wasim Akram, dangerous pacer Jeff Thomson, and the accuracy of Venkatesh Prasad, complemented by the magical spin of Bishan Singh Bedi.
Sai Sudharsan’s pre-T20 IPL XI:
Kris Srikkanth, Navjot Singh Sidhu, Farokh Engineer (WK), Don Bradman, Ravi Shastri, Lance Klusener, Kapil Dev (C), Wasim Akram, Venkatesh Prasad, Bishan Singh Bedi, Jeff Thomson. (Sub: Robin Singh)
Sudharsan’s fitness update for Gujarat Titans ahead of IPL 2026
While the XI was entertaining to discuss, Sai Sudharsan has been focused on his own training for the IPL 2026 season. After suffering a right rib fracture during the Vijay Hazare Trophy, he is back to training.
- Domestic Performance: He performed impressively in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, scoring 192 runs with a strike rate of 152.38.
- GT Pre-Season Training: Sudharsan has been seen practicing at the Gujarat Titans camp with captain Shubman Gill.
- Expectations: After a strong domestic season, the team’s management is counting on him to deliver explosive starts as they aim to reclaim the IPL title in 2026.
