Sai Sudharsan Makes IPL History; Reaches 3,000 Runs In Record 78 Innings Against KKR

Sai Sudharsan scripted history during the IPL 2026 clash between the Gujarat Titans and Kolkata Knight Riders at Eden Gardens by becoming the fastest batter ever to reach 3,000 T20 runs. The 24-year-old achieved the milestone in just 78 innings, surpassing former Australian batter Shaun Marsh, who had previously reached the landmark in 85 innings.

Despite suffering a painful blow to his left elbow from a delivery by Kartik Tyagi, Sudharsan returned to the crease and played a fighting unbeaten knock of 53 off 28 balls. His innings included six boundaries and three sixes as Gujarat Titans attempted to chase down a massive 248-run target set by KKR. The left-hander now has 3,017 runs in 79 T20 matches at an impressive average of 43.72 and a strike rate above 142.

Sudharsan has also emerged as one of the standout performers of IPL 2026 and currently holds the Orange Cap for most runs this season. He has scored 554 runs in 13 innings at an average of 46.16 and a strike rate of 157.83, including one century and six half-centuries. His consistency has been remarkable in the second half of the season after a relatively quiet start to the campaign.

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The Gujarat opener has now recorded four consecutive scores of 50 or more this season, including an unbeaten 53 against KKR, 61 against Sunrisers Hyderabad, 55 against Rajasthan Royals, and 57 against Punjab Kings. The streak underlines his importance at the top of the order and his growing reputation as one of the most reliable young batters in T20 cricket.

In the match itself, Kolkata Knight Riders produced a batting masterclass after being put into bat first. Finn Allen smashed 93 off just 35 balls, while Angkrish Raghuvanshi remained unbeaten on 82. Cameron Green added a quick-fire half-century as KKR posted a massive 247/2 in 20 overs. Mohammed Siraj and Sai Kishore picked up one wicket each for Gujarat.

During the chase, Gujarat Titans stayed competitive through strong knocks from captain Shubman Gill, who scored 85, and Jos Buttler, who contributed 57. However, the required run rate eventually proved too steep as GT finished on 218/4. Sunil Narine starred with the ball for KKR, claiming 2/29 and earning the Player of the Match award.

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