Gujarat Titans’ Sai Sudharsan picks Kapil Dev and Bradman in his dream IPL XI.
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All-Time Pre-T20
If the IPL had existed in 1948, would the “Don” have maintained an average of 99.94, or would the frantic pace of the 20-over game have humanized him?
Sai Sudharsan, currently shaking off the rust of a rib fracture, spent his downtime answering that very question. He didn’t just pick a “Greatest XI”; he applied strict modern IPL roster constraints to players who retired before the format was even a sketch on a napkin.
The All-Time “Vintage” XI
The squad is a fascinating mix of grit and pure, unadulterated aggression:
- The Openers: Kris Srikkanth & Navjot Singh Sidhu (The original “dashers”).
- The Anchor: Farokh Engineer (WK) & Don Bradman (The tactical spine).
- The Power: Ravi Shastri, Lance Klusener, & Kapil Dev (C).
- The Attack: Wasim Akram, Jeff Thomson, Venkatesh Prasad, & Bishan Singh Bedi.
Why Robin Singh is the Secret Weapon
While the names Bradman and Akram grab the headlines, Sudharsan’s choice of Robin Singh as the backup/substitute is the most insightful. In the 90s, Robin Singh was often undervalued as a “utility man.” In 2026, he is the perfect Impact Player. * He provides a left-handed batting option.
- He offers medium-pace “heavy balls” that thrive on slower tracks.
- His elite fielding—even by today’s standards—would save 10–15 runs an innings.
The “Aged” Bowling Edge
Modern fans often think old-school bowlers would get “smashed” by today’s bats. That is a myth.
- The Bedi Factor: Bishan Singh Bedi didn’t just spin the ball; he used subtle variations in air speed. In an era of power-hitters, his “invitation” to hit over the top would lead to a mountain of stumpings.
- The Prasad Slower Ball: Long before the “knuckleball” became trendy, Venkatesh Prasad was a master of the off-cutter. His accuracy would make him a death-overs specialist even in 2026.
Back to Reality: Sudharsan’s 2026 Outlook
While dreaming of the past is fun, the present is calling. After a rib fracture during the Vijay Hazare Trophy, Sudharsan has officially returned to the nets. His recent form is no joke:
- 192 runs in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy.
- A blistering 152.38 strike rate.
He’s currently refining his game at the Gujarat Titans camp. Alongside Shubman Gill, Sudharsan isn’t just looking to provide “fast scoring”—he’s looking to translate the legendary balance of his “All-Time XI” into a second title for the Titans.