‘A treat to the eye’ - Sachin Tendulkar in awe of Sai Sudharsan’s game-changing knock against CSK in IPL 2023 final

The final of IPL 2023 saw the four-time champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and the Hardik Pandya-led Gujarat Titans (GT) locking horns at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Monday, May 29.

Coming in to bat first after losing the toss, Gujarat Titans got off to a sensational start to the game as Shubman Gill and Wriddhiman Saha looked to be in the flow. Gill amassed 39 runs in 20 deliveries, whereas Saha scored 54 runs in 39 deliveries.

However, it was the knock of Indian batter Sai Sudharsan that lit the stage on fire in the summit clash of the tournament. The 21-year-old got off to a slow start to his innings, but he was quick to accelerate. His knock was also crucial for the defending champions, who posted a mammoth total on the board. 

Sudharsan scored 96 runs in 47 balls, and his knock was essential to Gujarat posting 215 runs on the board for Chennai to chase. Being just 21 years old, Sudharshan surely made his mark in the IPL 2023. His blitzkrieg saw him earn praise from all around the world, and even the great Sachin Tendulkar could not help but bat an eye.

Taking to Twitter, Tendulkar lauded the knock of Sudharshan and wrote, "Tonight, Sai was a treat to the eye! Well played @sais_1509."

Sachin Tendulkar@sachin_rt

Tonight, Sai was a treat to the eye! 🏏👀 Well played @sais_1509! #IPL2023Finals

09:31 PM · May 29, 2023

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Chennai Super Kings aim to chase down a target of 215 runs to win the IPL 2023. The MS Dhoni-led side would look to come in with all guns blazing if they were looking to become five-time champions. On the other hand, the defending champions would be keen on showcasing a mesmerising bowling display.

With both Mohammed Shami and Rashid Khan in their arsenal, Gujarat would be expected to give Chennai a hard time, especially considering the form both bowlers have been in. Shami currently holds the IPL purple cap, with 28 wickets in 17 matches, and he is closely followed by Rashid, who has 27 wickets in 17 games.