Sai Sudharsen (Annie’s photo)
New Delhi: Gujarat Titans registered a tense four-wicket win over Punjab Kings in the IPL on Sunday, thanks to a quiet half-century from Sai Sudharsan and a strong bowling performance from Mohammed Siraj, Jason Holder and
Kagiso Rabada
. Chasing 164 on a somewhat difficult pitch, Gujarat crossed the finish line in the final over with the help of
Washington Sundar
Who remained undefeated with a score of 40.Punjab had earlier struggled badly after being reduced to 47 for five in nine overs. However, debutant Suryansh Shidge played a brave knock of 57 off just 29 balls to revive the innings. He put together a 79-run partnership with Marcus Stoinis, who contributed 40 runs.After captain Shubman Gill got out early, Sudharsen took charge of the chase with 57 off 41 balls. He also shared a useful partnership with
Jos Butler
who made 25 with a few big sixes.Sudharsan hit his third fifty of the season before being dismissed near the boundary. Gujarat still needs 11 runs in the final after that
Rahul Tewatia
He fell, but Washington Sundar finished the match in style with a six off Stoinis.Gujarat’s bowlers played a big role in the win by damaging Punjab’s batting early. Siraj hit a brace in the opener, removing Priyansh Arya and Cooper Connolly. Rabada then dismissed Prabhsimran Singh with a fiery delivery.Holder added to Punjab’s problems by removing Nihal Wadhera and captain Shreyas Iyer. Although Shedge later counterattacked with several big overs, Punjab could only manage 163 for nine.