IPL 2025: Sudharsan Discusses Challenging Batting Conditions After His Fourth Fifty

Synopsis

On April 12, Sai Sudharsan reflected on the challenging batting pitch at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, where he and Shubman Gill scored a significant partnership against the Lucknow Super Giants. Despite their efforts, the Gujarat team struggled to capitalize on the strong start.

Key Takeaways

Sudharsan highlights the difficulties of batting on a tough pitch.
Strong powerplay performance by Sudharsan and Gill.
Gujarat's middle order faltered after a promising start.
Lucknow's batting lineup under pressure due to player absences.
Changing pitch conditions impacted batting strategies.

Lucknow, April 12 (NationPress) Opener Sai Sudharsan shared his thoughts on the challenging batting conditions at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium after he formed a significant 120-run partnership with captain Shubman Gill against the Lucknow Super Giants.

Although the pair surpassed the 100-run mark within the first 10 overs, aided by a powerful start in the powerplay, the remaining batsmen for Gujarat struggled, concluding their innings at 180/6 over 20 overs.

"It was quite tough today as the ball wasn't coming onto the bat well, but Shubhi [Gill] and I enjoyed a fantastic six overs during the powerplay, which provided us with the necessary momentum and a solid base to aim for a strong finish. Initially, we didn’t notice [the pitch slowing down], but as the shine faded, the conditions changed," Sudharsan remarked during a mid-innings interview with broadcasters.

"We discussed the possibility of the wicket slowing down, but we were keen not to lose our momentum and strike rate, which would make it easier for us to close out the innings. Variations in pace at the right spots were very challenging for us to handle. Many deliveries were bouncing low, and the slower balls were gripping on the pitch, making batting tough," he added.

It appeared that Gujarat was on track for a score exceeding 200, but the loss of Gill, Sudharsan, and Washington in quick succession placed added strain on the middle order. Ravi Bishnoi and Shardul Thakur each took two wickets, disrupting Gujarat's momentum, while Digvesh Rathi and Avesh Khan also contributed with wickets.

While Lucknow has demonstrated their ability to chase and set high targets with players like Aiden Markram, Mitchell Marsh, and Nicolas Pooran performing exceptionally well, significant pressure will fall on Rishabh Pant as he opens the innings alongside Markram, given that Marsh is absent due to family commitments. Himmat Singh has been named as Marsh’s replacement for this match.