Kolkata: Sai Sudharsan gave Gujarat Titans fans a scare after suffering a painful blow during their IPL 2026 clash against Kolkata Knight Riders at Eden Gardens on Saturday, briefly walking off the field before returning to continue his innings.
Sudharsan hit on elbow, forced to leave field
The incident occurred early in Gujarat Titans’ daunting chase of 248. Facing Kartik Tyagi in the third over, Sudharsan attempted to pull a short-of-length delivery but was struck hard on his left elbow.
Despite completing a single, the opener immediately collapsed to the ground in visible pain, prompting urgent attention from the team physio. After a prolonged assessment on the field, Sudharsan decided to walk off, raising concerns about the severity of the injury.
Returns to resume innings
In a positive sign for Gujarat Titans, Sudharsan later returned to bat, showing resilience despite the earlier discomfort. His comeback helped stabilise the innings after the early setback, even as the team faced a steep target set by KKR.
While the extent of the injury was not immediately confirmed, his return suggested that the blow was not serious enough to rule him out of the match.
KKR pile on massive total after GT fielding lapses
Earlier in the match, Finn Allen produced a sensational innings, smashing 93 off just 35 balls to lead KKR’s batting onslaught.
He was well supported by Angkrish Raghuvanshi (82 not out) and Cameron Green (52 not out), as KKR posted a formidable 247/2.
Gujarat Titans’ fielding proved costly, with multiple dropped catches allowing KKR’s batters to capitalise fully and build a match-defining total.
GT face uphill battle in high-scoring chase
Chasing 248, Gujarat Titans needed a strong start, and Sudharsan initially looked in good touch, striking a six and four boundaries before the injury interruption.
However, the early blow and mounting scoreboard pressure made the chase increasingly difficult. Despite individual efforts, the target proved steep against a confident KKR side.
Injury scare adds to GT concerns
Sudharsan’s injury scare adds to concerns for Gujarat Titans as the tournament enters a crucial phase. With the playoffs race intensifying, the fitness of key players will be critical.
The young opener has been a vital part of GT’s batting line-up this season, and any prolonged injury could impact their campaign significantly.
Conclusion
While Sai Sudharsan’s return to the crease provided relief, the incident highlighted the physical demands and risks of high-intensity T20 cricket. Gujarat Titans will hope their in-form opener remains fit as they push for a strong finish in IPL 2026.