Shubman Gill and Sai Sudharsan etched their names in the history books by registering the highest partnership in T20 cricket. The duo added 167 runs for the second wicket against Rajasthan Royals in Qualifier 2 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, surpassing the previous record held by Chris Gayle and Kumar Sangakkara.
Record-breaking stand
The Gujarat Titans pair came together after the early dismissal of Wriddhiman Saha. Gill and Sudharsan then took apart the Rajasthan Royals bowling attack with a display of power-hitting and intelligent strokeplay. Gill scored 96 off 54 balls, while Sudharsan contributed 86 off 48 deliveries. Their partnership not only set a new T20 world record but also propelled Gujarat Titans to a formidable total of 223 for 3 in their 20 overs.
Previous record
The previous record for the highest partnership in T20 cricket was 166 runs, set by Chris Gayle and Kumar Sangakkara for Jamaica Tallawahs in the Caribbean Premier League in 2013. Gill and Sudharsan's partnership of 167 runs now stands as the new benchmark in the format.
Impact on the match
The record-breaking stand proved to be the difference between the two teams. Rajasthan Royals, in their chase, could only manage 185 for 7 in their 20 overs, falling short by 38 runs. Gujarat Titans' bowlers, led by Mohammed Shami's 3 for 32, ensured that the opposition never got close to the target.
Reactions
After the match, Gill credited the team's batting coach for the aggressive approach. "We wanted to put pressure on their bowlers from the start. The pitch was good for batting, and we capitalized on the powerplay overs," Gill said. Sudharsan added, "It was a special feeling to be part of such a record. Shubman and I have a good understanding, and it showed today."
The Gujarat Titans will now face the Chennai Super Kings in the final, aiming to win their second IPL title. The record partnership has given them a massive confidence boost ahead of the summit clash.
