New Delhi: Not once. twice A single dismissal. Same reaction. Gujarat Titans batsman Sai Sudharsan suffered a strange dismissal during the IPL 2026 Qualifier 2 against Rajasthan Royals in Milanpur on Friday, almost identical to his dismissal in Qualifier 1 against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Dharamsala.With the unusual dismissal, Sudharsan became the first batsman in IPL history to be dismissed on a hit wicket in back-to-back innings.GT Captain Shabman GulStunned while batting at the non-striker’s end. The Gujarat Titans captain looked distraught and even fell to the ground in disbelief to see his opening partner return in such unpleasant circumstances.After Rajasthan Royals posted a massive 214/6 in 20 overs, Gujarat Titans got off to a flying start thanks to Vibhu Suryavanshi’s 47-ball 96. Openers Gayle and Sudharsan put on a century stand together and the chase seemed to be firmly in control.Just when it looked like the duo would guide the Gujarat Titans to victory, Sudharsan’s innings came to an abrupt end. Trying to clear a low full toss from Brijesh Sharma offside, Sudharsan lost his grip on the bat after making contact. The bat flew backwards and hit the stumps, resulting in the hit wicket being out.The crowd went berserk, while Gill at the other end collapsed on his haunches in despair.“Where’s Favicol? Where’s Glu?” said Ravi Shastri sarcastically.Chasing 215, Gayle and Sudharsan made light work of the target, adding 167 runs in just 12.5 overs before an unfortunate dismissal ended Sudharsan’s innings. Despite the setback, Gujarat Titans defeated Rajasthan Royals by seven wickets.After the match, Gill was asked about Sudharsan’s unusual dismissal.Gill said, “I don’t think I’ve ever seen anything. Nobody’s seen anything like that, two matches, back to back. The way he got out. I saw some video on social media where his hand was taped, I think I’ll have to do that in the next match.”With the win, Gujarat Titans set up a title clash against Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday.
