Sai Sudharsan scored a composed 81 on Day 1 of the one-off India vs Afghanistan Test in New Chandigarh, helping the hosts post 368 for 3 at stumps, but the young left-hander admitted he was disappointed not to convert his start into a landmark score. Batting at number three, Sudharsan shared a 139-run second-wicket partnership with centurion KL Rahul after India elected to bat first.

Sudharsan on the Missed Opportunity

'I think, I was set, it could have been a big innings. Definitely disappointed, but really happy that I could contribute for the team and be a bit more certain there,' Sudharsan told broadcasters ahead of Day 2. The knock was his third half-century in Test cricket, underlining a growing comfort at the highest level despite his limited appearances in the format.

Transition from T20 to Test Cricket

Asked how he manages the mental shift between white-ball and red-ball cricket, Sudharsan was candid about his approach. 'Mentally, I think it's not a big difference for me, as I play the sport very similar, wherever I go and play, whether white ball or red ball. It's all about decision-making for me and just a few minor technical adjustments,' he said. He credited the three to four days of preparatory time the team had before the match for helping him recalibrate to red-ball conditions.

Process, Preparation and Game Plan

Sudharsan, known for his methodical approach, revealed that video analysis of Afghanistan's bowlers played a central role in his preparation. 'We had videos in place, so I worked on it. I looked at what the bowlers can bowl and what they can do against me,' he said. He emphasised that mental clarity and self-belief were equally critical: 'It was more about me mentally being there and more about me mentally trusting myself or believing myself more. I think that kicked in a bit more, just came and it helped well.'

The Gill-Gambhir Factor

Sudharsan also spoke warmly about the continuity of leadership he enjoys — playing under Shubman Gill both at Gujarat Titans (GT) in the Indian Premier League and in the national Test side, with Gautam Gambhir serving as head coach. 'I think it's really a blessing, to be honest, because the way we share the relationship, it's really great. And even the coach and the captain, the certainty they give both in GT and in the Indian team, which is really, really pleasing and really great for a cricketer,' he said. He noted that the freedom extended by Gill and Gambhir allows players to focus entirely on the present, without anxiety about past performances or future selection.

India's Strong Day 1 Position

India's 368 for 3 at the close of Day 1 puts them in a commanding position heading into Day 2 of the match, being played at New Chandigarh. With Rahul's century anchoring the innings and Sudharsan's half-century providing early momentum, the hosts will look to push towards a substantial first-innings total when play resumes.