Team India batsman Sai Sudarshan recently revealed that he fears the most from Gujarat Titans (GT) head coach Ashish Nehra after the IPL 2026 season. Despite sharing a close bond with the former India fast bowler, the left-handed batsman admitted that Nehra’s intense personality could be intimidating at times.
Ashish Nehra has enjoyed great success with Gujarat Titans since joining the franchise, leading them to the IPL title in 2022 and finals in 2023 and 2026. Meanwhile, Sudarshan has become one of the key batsmen of the team, scoring over 700 runs in each of the last two IPL seasons.
Sometimes he scares me – Sai Sudarshan on Ashish Nehra
Speaking on Gobinath YouTube channel, Sai Sudarshan was asked what he fears most in a team environment. The 24-year-old player, named Ashish Nehra, said that the former India fast bowler has a brilliant cricket mind, but sometimes he can be intimidating despite his friendly nature.
Sai Sudarshan said, “Ashish Nehra. He has an amazing cricketing mind. But sometimes he scares me.” “He’s also the funniest guy, yet, like a father figure to all the players.”
Sudarshan recently scored 81 runs off 104 balls including 13 fours in India’s dominant win over Afghanistan. India declared their first innings at 564/8 and then bowled out Afghanistan for 152 and 112 to win by an innings and 300 runs in the one-off Test at New Chandigarh.
He was the one whom I looked up to as a role model – Sai Sudarshan
Sudarshan also praised his relationship with Gujarat Titans and India captain Shubman Gill. He said that Gill has supported him since his early days in the franchise by giving him advice and helping him improve, even when he was dropped due to team combinations.
Sudarshan said, “When I first came to GT I looked up to him as a role model. In my second year, even when I was performing well, I was dropped because of the team combination.”
“He would always come and talk to me and point out small areas in which I could improve. I have a very good relationship with him. I can call him anytime and if I have any doubts, I will send him a message. It’s a privilege that I also got a chance to play with him in the Indian team.”
He supports the players a lot – Sai Sudarshan on Gautam Gambhir
Sudarshan also praised India head coach Gautam Gambhir for creating a positive atmosphere in the dressing room. The left-handed batsman said Gambhir gives players the freedom to play their natural game and always supports them, which helps in building confidence.
Sai Sudarshan said, “The most important thing for a player in a team is freedom of expression. He is a person who says do whatever you want to do and I will support you.” “That’s what allows me to play for the team instead of thinking about scoring for myself.”
“He is creating an environment where players are more expressive. He is a really good guy who is very supportive of the players,” he said.
