Sai Sudharsan joins Tamil Nadu squad for SMAT 2025
What's the story
The Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA) has announced the inclusion of Indian cricketer Sai Sudharsan in their senior squad for the ongoing Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) in Ahmedabad. The move comes as a major boost for the team after a disappointing start to their season. Sudharsan's return is expected to strengthen an inexperienced batting unit that is looking to gain early momentum in the tournament.
Player profile
Sudharsan's T20 credentials and IPL success
Sudharsan is no stranger to the T20 format, having made a name for himself with the Gujarat Titans. He was a key player in their lineup, finishing as the team's top scorer in IPL 2025 with 759 runs from 15 matches at an impressive strike rate of 156.17. His stellar performance earned him the coveted Orange Cap, making him one of India's most promising batsmen in domestic cricket.
Form update
Sudharsan's recent international performance and domestic return
Sudharsan's inclusion in the Tamil Nadu squad comes after a disappointing Test series with the national team. After being left out of the 1st Test in Kolkata, Sudharsan was included for the contest in Guwahati. He scored just 15 and 14 runs. The 24-year-old was part of India's last Test defeat in Guwahati, which resulted in a 0-2 series loss against South Africa.
Team lineup
Tamil Nadu's squad for Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy
The final squad for the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy includes Varun Chakravarthy (captain), Narayan Jagadeesan (vice-captain and wicketkeeper), Tushar Raheja (wicketkeeper), VP Amit Sathvik, M Shahrukh Khan, Andre Siddarth, Pradosh Ranjan Paul, Shivam Singh, R Sai Kishore, M Siddharth, T Natarajan, Gurjapneet Singh, A Esakkimuthu, R Sonu Yadav, R Silambarasan, and S Rithik Easwaran (wicketkeeper). Sudharsan's inclusion in this strong lineup is sure to add depth to the batting order.
Information
TN lose their SMAT opener
In their Round 1 clash, Tamil Nadu scored 169/8 in 20 overs. In response, Rajasthan won the match by six wickets. Deepak Hooda smashed an unbeaten 76 from 36 balls.