‘I’m going to try some grip tech now’ – Sai Sudharsan is hit wicket again – Sai Sudharsan’s Rare Hit-Wicket Streak: GT Opener Reflects on Bizarre Dismissals

The Unlikely Streak of Sai Sudharsan

In the high-stakes environment of the IPL, getting out hit wicket is a rarity that usually results in a momentary loss of focus. However, Gujarat Titans (GT) opener Sai Sudharsan has turned this rare occurrence into a bizarre trend, finding himself dismissed in this fashion in two consecutive playoff games. Despite the absurdity of the situation, the young batter has managed to maintain his composure, keeping a sense of humor as he prepares his side for the IPL 2026 final against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB).

Sudharsan now holds a place in a unique record, having been dismissed hit-wicket three times in his T20 career. He currently joins the ranks of T20 veterans Andre Russell and Shoaib Malik, who have also suffered the same fate on three occasions. Yet, Sudharsan’s recent run—occurring during the most crucial phase of the tournament—has been particularly surreal.

A Tale of Two Freak Dismissals

The trouble began in Qualifier 1 against RCB. Looking fluent and in control, Sudharsan’s innings was cut short in the third over. While attempting a cut shot against Jacob Duffy, his bat slipped from his grip. In a stroke of pure misfortune, the bat ricocheted off the ground and back into the leg stump before the ball had even reached the boundary. It was a bizarre moment that left viewers and commentators stunned.

If the first incident felt like a one-off stroke of bad luck, the Qualifier 2 match against Rajasthan Royals (RR) felt like an uncanny sense of déjà vu. Chasing a formidable target of 215, Sudharsan was in sublime form, racing to 58 off just 32 balls. The opening stand between him and Shubman Gill was setting the tone for a comfortable chase. However, while executing a drive off a low full toss from Brijesh Sharma, his bat flew out of his hands once again, crashing directly into the stumps. A visibly frustrated Sudharsan walked back to the pavilion in disbelief, while his partner, Shubman Gill, could only look on in shock.

Humor Amidst the Chaos

Despite the frustration of losing his wicket in such a manner, Sudharsan has taken the situation in stride. When asked about his plans to prevent a third occurrence, he joked with broadcasters, suggesting he might look into some grip technology. “I think I should try some things,” Sudharsan remarked. “I’m going to try some grip tech now and just bat a few balls and see how it is. But honestly, I don’t have a lot of answers on how it happened.” He even quipped about the nature of the dismissals, noting that he wanted to see if he could keep his bat in his hands moving forward.

The Power of the GT Opening Partnership

While the hit-wicket incidents have dominated the headlines, the partnership between Sai Sudharsan and Shubman Gill remains the cornerstone of the Gujarat Titans’ success. Together, they have forged a formidable alliance that has seen both batters cross the 700-run mark in IPL 2026, including four century-plus stands.

Shubman Gill, reflecting on their synergy, noted that their partnership is built on clear communication and a deep understanding of each other’s game. “We complement each other very well,” Gill explained. “We understand each other’s game very well. And when we are batting out there, our communication is very good. We know one of us has to take down one of the bowlers.”

Looking Ahead to the Final

As the Gujarat Titans prepare to face RCB in the final, the focus shifts back to the collective strength of the team. Sudharsan feels that his role within the setup has evolved significantly over the years. “I think it definitely evolved over the years,” he said regarding his chemistry with Gill. “I had great experiences in the first few years with the GT team which gave me some exposure or some experience on what I want to improve. This year there are so many points where I can improve so that I’ll work on that and come back.”

Whether Sudharsan manages to solve the mystery of his disappearing bat or not, the cricket world will be watching closely as he steps out for the final. One thing is certain: his presence at the crease, for however long it lasts, has become one of the most unpredictable and captivating narratives of this IPL season.