In the 2024 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL), the Gujarat Titans notched up their fourth victory, overcoming the Punjab Kings with a narrow three-wicket win last Sunday, April 21. In the aftermath of a heavy defeat at the hands of the Delhi Capitals, this triumph accords the Titans a much-needed lift and an additional two points to their tournament tally. The win, fashioned in the serene locale of Mullanpur, was chiefly orchestrated by the spin triumvirate of Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad, and the star of the show, R Sai Kishore. Rahul Tewatia’s undefeated cameo of 36 runs off 18 balls gave the finishing touches to a hard-fought chase.
The solid foundation of the spin strategy was set by Rashid and Noor, who constricted the flow of runs during the middle overs, countering the Punjab Kings’ robust start at the crease. Nonetheless, it was Sai Kishore who, with a dazzling display of flight and guile, prised out the middle-order of the Kings. Marking his prominence, Sai Kishore is in his fifth IPL season and has been on the pitch for just seven encounters. His journey speaks to the trials of breaking into a side brimming with talent. Despite being associated with the Chennai Super Kings during the 2020 and 2021 seasons without making an appearance, Kishore’s persistence finally bore fruit after he secured an INR 3 crore contract with the Gujarat Titans. However, it required one full season more before he was bestowed with a chance to wield his craft in the 2023 edition. When presented with the stage, Kishore justified his selection with the same aplomb he exuded playing for Tamil Nadu across various domestic cricket formats.
Conspicuously leading his state team to the finals of the Ranji Trophy in the 2023-24 season, Sai Kishore emerged as the tournament’s most prolific wicket-taker. His outstanding performance included three five-wicket hauls and a total season tally of 53 wickets, underscoring his major role in Tamil Nadu’s journey to the final. What may come as a surprise to many is Kishore’s international experience; the towering left-arm spinner has represented India in all three games during the Asian Games, delivering precisely what was expected of him.
Despite these credentials, consistent opportunities at the higher echelons of cricket have eluded Kishore. But his Sunday outing may have just set the stage for a turnaround. Kishore partook in a piece of history as he became the second spinner from the Gujarat Titans, following Rashid’s lead, to earn a four-wicket haul in the tournament. His balls, which delivered just a tad slower through the air with a pitch assisting lower pace, ensured he reaped the success he labored hard for.
In his match-defining performance, Kishore dealt critical blows by dismissing eminent players such as Jitesh Sharma, Shashank Singh, Ashutosh Sharma, and Harpreet Brar. This outing was not just a personal achievement for Kishore, but a significant factor in the Gujarat Titans’ revival and victory. As the Titans advance, both the team and Kishore personally are hopeful that this heralds the beginning of continuous successful contributions and opportunities in the leagues ahead.
Sai Kishore’s ascension and pivotal role in bringing the Gujarat Titans to victory express a tale of perseverance and belief in one’s abilities despite the hurdles on the path to recognition in a sport worshipped by millions. His journey up to now, marked with patience, hard work, and now success, reinforces the notion that the spotlight will eventually turn to talent and determination, no matter how long they’ve waited in the wings.
