Sai Sudharsan has enjoyed one of the most productive phases of his career in recent months, seamlessly transitioning from a prolific Indian Premier League campaign to impressive performances in red-ball cricket. After starring for Gujarat Titans in IPL 2026, the left-hander carried his form into the longer format and recently reflected on the adjustments required to succeed across formats.
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Sai Sudharsan explains his switch from IPL to red-ball cricket
Sudharsan finished IPL 2026 with 722 runs, registering his second successive 700-plus season for Gujarat Titans and ending as the tournament's third-highest run-scorer. The 24-year-old admitted it was his best campaign in the competition and credited his mental approach for helping him overcome a slow start.
"It was my best IPL so far. I didn't score much in the first few games... I learnt a lot — to not take the past into a game."
The Tamil Nadu batter then made a smooth transition into red-ball cricket, scoring 81 against Afghanistan in a one-off Test before following it up with two centuries during India A's recent tour of Sri Lanka.
Sudharsan revealed that adapting quickly between formats comes down to constant improvement and embracing the unique challenges of Test cricket.
"In Tests, even a small weakness will be challenged. As a batter, you have to keep improving in all those small things."
He also acknowledged that he could have expressed himself more freely during the early stages of his Test career, adding that growing into the role would help him produce his best performances.
India A tour provides ideal preparation ahead of Sri Lanka Tests
Sudharsan believes the India A tour of Sri Lanka offered ideal preparation ahead of India's upcoming two-Test series in the island nation. He highlighted the challenging conditions, particularly the strong breeze, as a valuable learning experience.
"You can't commit too early... You have to judge the ball as late as possible."
Looking ahead, the left-hander plans to focus on improving both physically and technically before returning to international action. He identified fitness, movement, recovery and playing spin more effectively as the key areas he wants to refine.
With confidence high after an outstanding IPL campaign and encouraging performances in red-ball cricket, Sudharsan appears well-positioned to play a crucial role in India's upcoming Test assignments.