WV Raman reveals what makes Sai Sudharsan special, says he has got the basics right

Former Indian batter WV Raman believes Sai Sudharsan has got all the ingredients to become a special player for India in all three formats. Raman, the former Indian women team’s coach, feels the left-handed batter has the right basics to succeed at the top level.

Furthermore, Raman noted that Sudharsan has an insatiable hunger for runs and has done well for his state, Tamil Nadu as well as Gujarat Titans in the ongoing IPL 2025.

The 23-year-old southpaw is currently the second highest run-getter in the ongoing season with 329 runs in six games at an average of 54.83 and a strike rate of 151.61.

“He’s got the ABCs of cricket right,” said Raman in an exclusive interview with PTI Videos.

“He’s got the attitude, he’s got the basics, and he’s also got the commitment,” he added.

“Over a period of time, he’s maintained a high degree of consistency and within a short span of time, he’s made people sit up and take note. Regardless of the levels at which he’s played or the teams that he’s represented, he’s shown an insatiable hunger for runs. And that’s something outstanding,” Raman observed.

The former Indian opener added that Sudharsan is continuously looking to improve his range of shots.

“He’s constantly working on improving his repertoire of strokes, which is important.

“If you succeed one year in a top-level competition such as the IPL, there will be a lot more focus on you the following season. They try and work you out. But Sai’s solution — developing new shots every season or improving upon his options — has ensured that he doesn’t get stuck,” said the former India opener.

On the other hand, Raman said Punjab Kings opener Priyansh Arya is treat to the eyes when he gets going. Arya has scored 216 runs in six matches at an average of 36 and a strike rate of 216 in IPL 2025, including a century against CSK.

“The basic purpose of the IPL was to try and provide a platform for a lot of talent to come through — and that has happened. That boy from Delhi, Priyansh Arya, I tell you, such a free-flowing player, absolute clarity of mind. It’s a delight to watch him bat,” Raman said.