IPL 2026: Who is Nishant Sindhu? Gujarat Titans hand debut to India U-19 World Cup winner
Gujarat Titans handed a maiden IPL appearance to all-rounder Nishant Sindhu against Punjab Kings. Captain Shubman Gill confirmed the decision at the toss, emphasizing the team's momentum in chasing and the need to peak at the right time. Sindhu, a left-handed batter and slow left-arm orthodox bowler, previously impressed in junior cricket and the U-19 World Cup.
Gujarat Titans handed a maiden IPL appearance to young all-rounder Nishant Sindhu during their clash against Punjab Kings at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday. Captain Shubman Gill confirmed the inclusion at the toss after opting to bowl first. Explaining the decision, Gill pointed to the team’s recent success while chasing and their desire to build on that rhythm.
“We’ve been chasing well in the past few games, so we’ll continue with the momentum,” he said. He also reflected on the importance of finishing games strongly, praising Rahul Tewatia’s impact in the previous match. Gill added that the surface might offer early help for bowlers and stressed that the team is aiming to peak at the right stage of the tournament.
“I think it’s all about peaking at the right time, and I feel our best game is yet to come. Nishant Sindhu makes his debut,” he confirmed. Sindhu, a talented all-rounder from Haryana, is known for his left-handed batting along with his slow left-arm orthodox bowling.
He first rose to prominence during the 2018-19 U-16 Vijay Merchant Trophy, where he amassed 572 runs and claimed 23 wickets, playing a decisive role in Haryana lifting the title. His progress continued at the international junior level, where he was part of India’s triumphant squad at the 2022 ICC Under-19 World Cup. During the tournament, he contributed in both departments, picking up six wickets in five matches and also scoring an important half-century.