Sai Sudharsan, the talented young cricketer from Tamil Nadu, is making a name for himself in the Indian Premier League (IPL) with his impressive performances for the Gujarat Titans. His recent innings, where he scored a half-century against the Delhi Capitals, drew praise from cricketing legend Sunil Gavaskar. This article delves into Sudharsan’s journey, his impact in the IPL, and the influence of his mother, Usha Bharadwaj.
In the recently concluded domestic season, Sudharsan showcased his batting prowess by scoring three centuries in the Vijay Hazare Trophy and two hundreds in the Ranji Trophy, including one on his debut. His consistent performances earned him recognition and a spot in the Indian Under-19 team for the 2020 U-19 World Cup, narrowly missing out on the final squad. However, he used the pandemic-induced break to focus on his fitness and enhance his skills.
Journey from Domestic Success to IPL Stardom
Sudharsan’s success at the domestic level caught the attention of IPL teams, leading to him being purchased by the Gujarat Titans. His impact in the IPL was felt immediately as he replaced the injured Kane Williamson in the playing XI and delivered crucial performances. Batting at No. 3, he displayed elegance and composure, guiding Gujarat to victory alongside his teammates Vijay Shankar and David Miller.
His ability to handle the pace of formidable bowlers like Anrich Nortje was particularly impressive, as he struck two sixes and a boundary off the fast bowler’s deliveries. Sunil Gavaskar’s praise on air further validated Sudharsan’s growing stature and potential.
The article also sheds light on Sudharsan’s family background. His mother, Usha Bharadwaj, was a state-level volleyball player, and his father, R Bharadwaj, was a national-level athlete. Sport runs in their blood, but interestingly, Usha prefers not to watch her son play due to the tension it brings. However, she has been instrumental in Sudharsan’s fitness journey, using her expertise as a strength and conditioning coach to help him become fitter and adapt to the demands of professional cricket.
The Influence of Usha Bharadwaj: Mother, Trainer, and Motivator
Usha’s professional side as a trainer was initially unknown to Sudharsan, but when he started attending state camps and IPL trials, hearing his mother’s name mentioned by other players made him realize her reputation. He then sought her guidance in the fitness aspect, leading to a fruitful collaboration between mother and son.
Usha’s efforts to motivate Sudharsan included using Virat Kohli’s fitness videos as inspiration. She highlighted Kohli’s dedication, sacrifices, and strict fitness regime to instill a sense of commitment in Sudharsan. His training soon became non-negotiable, and his hard work paid off as he gained a place in the Gujarat Titans’ IPL squad.
Sudharsan’s preparations for matches involve visualization, yoga, and meditation, along with studying the playing conditions and opposition. This holistic approach to his game reflects his determination to succeed at the highest level of cricket.
In conclusion, Sai Sudharsan’s rise in the IPL is a testament to his talent, hard work, and the unwavering support of his mother, Usha Bharadwaj. His impressive performances at the domestic level and in the IPL have showcased his potential as a future star of Indian cricket. As he continues to make waves in the IPL, Sudharsan’s journey serves as an inspiration for young cricketers, highlighting the importance of dedication, fitness, and mental preparedness in achieving success.
