'You Were Half the Size': Sai Sudharsan's India Teammate Lauds Debutant After Match-winning Innings

India batter Sai Sudarsan made his international debut on Sunday during the first ODI against South Africa at The Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg.

Sudarsan scored a sublime half-century to guide Team India to an emphatic eight-wicket victory.

His unbeaten 55 was also the highest score from either side.

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Sudarsan earned plaudits for his match-winning knock and his teammate Washington Sundar was also mesmerized by the performance.

Penning a heartfelt note on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Sundar posted, “Still vividly remember the first time I saw you in a school match. You were half the size to what you’re now, haha! Was a treat to watch you bat like that with so much class and at ease for India! Many congratulations on your India debut Sai!”

The 22-year-old hogged the limelight having played a blistering knock of 96 off 47 balls against Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 final.

The Gujarat Titans batter had smashed eight boundaries and six sixes during that game.

The rising star boasts of a good record in domestic cricket.

Sudarsan had also been impressive during the Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL) and a maiden India call-up for the southpaw was just a matter of time.

“Growing up as a small kid like everybody I also dreamt of playing for the country. So with hardwork n grit dreams do come true. Blessed to represent the country and contribute for the team. Looking forward to lots of memories. Special to receive the cap from KL Rahul Bhai & it was amazing to bat with Shreyas Iyer Bhai,” Sudarshan wrote on X.

Batting first, South Africa folded for a paltry total of 116.

India’s Arshdeep Singh was in spectacular form as he registered a five-wicket haul. The left-arm pacer scripted memorable figures of 5/37 from his 10 overs and was, quite rightfully, named player of the match.

Sudarsan and Shreyas Iyer then led solid batting diisplay.

The visitors scored the winning runs with 200 balls to spare. The second ODI of the series is set to be played at St George’s Park in Gqeberha on Tuesday, December 19.