“There's No Talk Of Relaxing In The Team, A Top-Two Finish Is Definitely On The Cards”: Sai Kishore

As the TATA IPL 2025 season reaches fever pitch with the race to the play-offs heating up among multiple teams, Gujarat Titans remain strong contenders for a top-two finish on the points table. Speaking exclusively on Star Sports Press Room, Gujarat Titans spinner Sai Kishore opened up about the team’s mindset heading towards play-off week, Shubman Gill’s leadership, Ashish Nehra’s role, and his impactful performances this season.

Sai Kishore on finishing in the 'top-two' spots and the final leg of the TATA IPL:

"A top-two finish is definitely in discussion — not just now, but before asking well. When you are qualifying, it's better to finish in the top-two. No complacency should be there. IPL is one tournament where every team is good. All players are among the best in the world. You can’t take any team lightly, whether they are in form or not — any player can change the game on their given day. So, there is no talk of relaxing. But a top-two finish is definitely on the cards."

Sai Kishore on Gujarat Titans' consistency and Ashish Nehra's influence:

"When Ashish Nehra is there, nobody can be complacent. Even after the last game against Mumbai Indians, he said we didn’t play well and need to improve in specific areas. There is no room for complacency because he’ll always let you know when something’s not right. He keeps things simple, straightforward, and to the point. He’s always there to appreciate you, but he will also step in if you're going off track. That way, everyone stays aligned to the team’s cause."

Sai Kishore on his personal form and team environment:

"It’s been a very good season for us, just like the 2022 season. A lot of credit goes to Ashish Nehra and Shubman Gill for the way they have led the team. The group is gelling well; we’re playing for each other. Personally, it’s been a very important season. But coming into it, I just wanted to enjoy my game. I didn’t have a ‘make it or break it’ mindset. I was comfortable with where my career was. I just wanted to give everything for the team, prepare well, and be satisfied with myself. With that approach, performances have followed."

Sai Kishore on Captain Shubman Gill:

"Shubman has always been a very good reader of the game. When he bats, he understands the match situation well. He’s not just a talented player but a very smart cricketer. He has helped me a lot as a spinner. Sometimes you need those inputs from the captain or a senior cricketer. I have my own instincts, and backing that with Shubman’s game-reading really helps."

Sai Kishore on the freedom and culture at Gujarat Titans:

"Gujarat Titans was the franchise that gave me the opportunity to compete in the IPL for the first time. I was with Chennai Super Kings for two years but didn’t get a game. So, I’m very grateful. At Gujarat Titans, every player has the freedom to express themselves. That’s all Ashish Nehra wants — no fear, no timid cricket. He encourages bravery and fearlessness. When you play like that, you naturally become a match-winner. That mindset has really worked for me this season."

Sai Kishore on the key influences in his cricketing journey:

"MS Dhoni had a great influence on me — the way he led, the way he approached situations. That shaped how I view and play the game. The second person would be Ashish Nehra. The way he handles the team as a coach — full control yet so hands-on — has made a great impact on me. So, the two people who have influenced me most are MS Dhoni and Ashish Nehra."

Catch the action as Lucknow Super Giants take on Royal Challengers Bengaluru at 7:30 PM tomorrow, May 9, as the race to the TATA IPL Play-offs heats up — live and exclusive on JioHotstar and Star Sports Network