Despite a heroic effort from rising star Sai Sudharsan, the Gujarat Titans (GT) were knocked out of IPL 2025 after falling 20 runs short against the Mumbai Indians (MI) in the Eliminator clash. Chasing a daunting 229, GT ended their innings at 208/6, bringing their campaign to a close at the crucial knockout stage.

Sudharsan played a lone hand in the chase, crafting a graceful 80 off 49 deliveries, laced with 10 boundaries and a six. His innings kept Gujarat in contention for a large part of the chase, but with wickets falling at regular intervals and the required rate climbing, the task proved too steep.

His performance, however, didn’t go unnoticed. Mahela Jayawardena, Mumbai Indians’ head coach and former Sri Lankan legend, had high praise for the young left-hander, especially with the batter set to tour England for a five-match Test series with Team India.

“I’ve truly enjoyed watching him bat. He’s a classy left-hander with great cricketing shots,” Jayawardena said after the match.

“England will be a challenge, as it is for any cricketer, but I believe he’ll adapt. He’s very talented and has the right temperament,” he added.

At just 23, Sudharsan has been one of the standout performers of IPL 2025. His consistency and composure have turned heads, and his stats speak for themselves. In 15 matches this season, he scored a phenomenal 759 runs at an average of 54.21, including six half-centuries and a century, cementing his place among the top batters of the tournament.

With his elegant strokeplay and cool-headed approach under pressure, Sudharsan is now edging closer to a lifelong dream – donning the Indian Test cap. If his IPL form is anything to go by, India may have unearthed another gem for the longest format.

Meanwhile, the victory propels Mumbai Indians into Qualifier 2, where they will meet Shreyas Iyer’s Punjab Kings for a place in the IPL 2025 final. With stakes higher than ever, the tournament promises more thrilling action in the coming days.