Indian cricket has never been short of young talent. From Shubman Gill to Yashasvi Jaiswal, several players have already showcased the potential to carry the team forward. With a strong domestic structure and a thriving IPL platform, every season brings fresh faces who are ready to take on the international stage. However, according to former cricketer and commentator Navjot Singh Sidhu, there’s one name that stands out among them all.

Navjot Singh Sidhu picks the next big thing in Indian cricket

While many consider Gill the natural successor to lead the next generation, Sidhu has placed his faith elsewhere. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Sidhu named Sai Sudharsan as his pick for the future of Indian cricket. He praised Sudharsan’s technical excellence, pointing out his steady head position, perfect balance, and smooth weight transfer while batting. According to Sidhu, these qualities allow Sudharsan to pick the line of the ball early and play with equal fluency on both sides of the wicket, whether off the front foot or back foot.

“Look at Sai Sudharsan. I’ve been saying since the IPL days that he is the future of Indian cricket. In spite of what anyone in the world may or may not say, just look at his head position, look at how well-balanced he is. Watch how his body weight transfers, see his effortless cricket. He picks the line so quickly and plays fluently on both sides, off and on side, off the back foot and the front foot. These are the two strong aspects, what we call gains. You know, these gains will ease our pains,” Sidhu explained.

Also WATCH: Tensions flare as Joe Root and Prasidh Krishna engage in heated exchange on Day 2 of the Oval Test

Promising England series for the youngster

Sai Sudharsan’s early performances in the ongoing series against England have further strengthened Sidhu’s claim. In the three matches he has played so far, the 22-year-old left-hander has scored 129 runs across five innings at an average of 25.80, including a gritty half-century. Though still in the early days of his international career, Sudharsan’s composure at the crease and technical solidity have impressed both experts and fans alike, making him one of the brightest prospects for the future of Indian cricket.

Also READ: ENG vs IND: Gus Atkinson provides update on Chris Woakes’ shoulder injury in the Oval Test