Sai Sudharsan credits chat with Gautam Gambhir for mental spark: 'Don’t get desperate…'

India’s young batter Sai Sudharsan reveals how a conversation with coach Gautam Gambhir helped him reset mentally, regain freedom at the crease and move past desperation.

Sai Sudharsan top scored for India on Day of the 4th test match. Image | BCCI on X

Young Indian batter Sai Sudharsan has revealed how a heartfelt conversation with India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir helped him regain his composure and confidence after a difficult phase in his early international career. The 23-year-old left-hander, who had been struggling with self-doubt following modest outings, said Gambhir’s words “Don’t get desperate, you will play” completely changed his mindset and allowed him to enjoy the game again.

How Gautam Gambhir’s guidance helped Sudharsan find freedom

Recalling the conversation, Sudharsan said Gambhir’s message came at a time when he was putting immense pressure on himself to perform. The coach’s reassurance that his place in the side was earned, not conditional, helped him shift focus from survival to contribution.

The Chennai-born batter explained that the advice helped him rediscover his natural rhythm to stay calm, play freely, and enjoy the contest rather than chase perfection. His performances since then have reflected that mindset change, with solid starts and a growing sense of maturity in his shot selection.

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"To be honest, support was impeccable. I can give an anecdote. We were practicing in Ferozshah Kotla (ahead of the 2nd Test against the West Indies). I was the last to nets, and GG sir called me and said: ‘Don’t get desperate, you are here because of so many reasons, you are one of the best players in the country. So, do not think about any other things or do not think about whether I have to score runs in this game or what will happen or what not. He told me, "you will play, and the way he told that to me gave me so much confidence and so much freedom,” said Sudharsan.

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Where to watch India vs Australia 2ne T20I match?

Cricket fans in India can watch the Australia vs India, 2nd T20I LIVE on JioHotstar, accessible via OTTplay Premium.

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