Sai Sudharsan Credits Gautam Gambhir for Ending Run Drought: ‘You Will Play’ Changed Everything

Indian batter B Sai Sudharsan has opened up about how a few words from head coach Gautam Gambhir helped him overcome his early struggles in international cricket. The 24-year-old Tamil Nadu batter, who had been facing a rough patch in his Test career, said Gambhir’s message gave him clarity, confidence, and a renewed mindset at the crease.

Speaking ahead of the unofficial India A vs South Africa A four-day Test in Bengaluru, Sudharsan reflected on the crucial conversation that took place during India’s series against the West Indies.

“After the first Test in Ahmedabad, we were practising at the Feroz Shah Kotla nets,” Sudharsan recalled. “GG sir called me and said, ‘You are one of the best players in the country. Don’t get desperate or overthink about scoring runs. You will play.’ The way he said it made a huge difference. It gave me freedom and belief to just focus on my game instead of worrying about results.”

The young left-hander, who has scored 273 runs in five Tests at an average of 30.33, said Gambhir’s confidence in him helped him play with a relaxed mindset. “When you hear such words from your head coach, it changes your entire outlook. I stopped chasing runs and started expressing myself,” he added.

The impact was immediate. In the very next Test in Delhi, Sudharsan produced scores of 87 and 39, guiding India to a 2-0 series win against the West Indies. Those innings not only ended his lean spell but also displayed his ability to bat under pressure — something Gambhir was known for during his own career.

While comparisons with India’s legendary No. 3 batters have already begun, Sudharsan insists he is still learning. Having mostly opened the innings for Tamil Nadu in domestic cricket, he’s gradually adapting to the middle-order role in Tests.

Now serving as Rishabh Pant’s deputy for India A, Sudharsan’s focus is on consistency as he prepares for the upcoming two-Test series against South Africa later this year. “The conversation with Gambhir sir reminded me that mindset matters more than anything. I just want to keep improving and contributing to the team,” he said.

With regained rhythm and composure, Sudharsan looks ready to translate Gambhir’s faith into long-term success for Indian cricket.