Sai Sudharsan (ANI Photo) NEW DELHI: Gujarat Titans pulled off a thrilling four-wicket victory over Punjab Kings in the IPL on Sunday thanks to a quiet half-century from Sai Sudharsan and a strong bowling performance from Mohammed Siraj, Jason Holder and Kagiso Rabada. Chasing 164 on a slightly difficult pitch, Gujarat crossed the finish line in the final over with Washington Sundar remaining unbeaten on 40.Punjab were earlier struggling after being reduced to 47 for five in nine overs. However, debutant Suryansh Shedge played a fearless knock of 57 off just 29 balls to revive the innings. He stitched together 79 runs with Marcus Stoinis contributing 40 runs.After captain Shubman Gill got out early, Sudharsan took up the chase with a composed 57 off 41 balls. He also shared a useful partnership with Jos Buttler who made 25 with some big sixes.Sudharsan reached his third fifty of the season before being dismissed near the boundary. Gujarat still needed 11 runs in the final over after Rahul Tewatia fell, but Washington Sundar finished the game in style, taking a six off Stoinis.Gujarat bowlers played a huge role in the win by damaging the Punjab batting early. Siraj struck twice in the opening over to remove Priyansh Arya and Cooper Connolly. Rabada then dismissed Prabhsimran Singh with a fiery delivery.Holder added to Punjab’s woes by removing Nehal Wadhera and captain Shreyas Iyer. Although Shedge later struck with some big hits, Punjab could only manage 163 for nine.
