Sai Sudharsan and Kagiso Rabada Masterclass: Gujarat Titans Silence Chepauk with 8-Wicket Win Over CSK
The Gujarat Titans (GT) showcased a clinical performance at the M. A.
Chidambaram Stadium, handing the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) a crushing
8-wicket defeat on April 26, 2026. Chasing a modest target of 159, the
Titans cruised to victory with 20 balls to spare, led by a sensational
knock from local hero Sai Sudharsan.
The Rabada Spell: CSK Stutter Early
After winning the toss and opting to bowl, GT’s pace spearhead Kagiso
Rabada dismantled the CSK top order. Rabada’s extra bounce accounted for
the early dismissals of the CSK openers, leaving the hosts reeling at
28/3 within the Powerplay.
While wickets fell at the other end, CSK captain Ruturaj Gaikwad
played a lone hand. His unbeaten 74 off 60 balls (6 fours, 4 sixes)
anchored the innings, helping Chennai reach a respectable 158/7.
However, GT’s disciplined bowling—supported by Arshad Khan (2/43) and a
tight spell from Mohammed Siraj—ensured the target remained well within
reach.
Sudharsan’s Homecoming Fireworks
The chase was never in doubt once Sai Sudharsan found his rhythm.
Playing in front of his home crowd, Sudharsan smashed 87 off just 46
deliveries, including 7 towering sixes.
He shared a blistering 58-run opening stand with skipper Shubman Gill (33), before stitching together a match-defining 97-run partnership with Jos Buttler (39)*. Sudharsan’s ability to manipulate the field and punish the spinners left the CSK bowling unit, led by Noor Ahmad (1/29), with no answers.
CSK: 158/7 in 20 overs (Ruturaj Gaikwad 74*; Kagiso Rabada 3/25)
GT: 162/2 in 16.4 overs (Sai Sudharsan 87, Jos Buttler 39*; Akeal Hosein 1/46)
Result: Gujarat Titans won by 8 wickets.
Player of the Match: Kagiso Rabada (GT)
