Who is Nishant Sindhu? 2022 U-19 World Cup winner makes his IPL debut in GT vs PBKS game

Gujarat Titans handed a debut to young all-rounder Nishant Sindhu during their IPL 2026 clash against Punjab Kings at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday. GT captain Shubman Gill confirmed at the toss that Sindhu would feature in the playing XI as he opted to bowl first.

"We've been chasing well in the past few games, so we'll continue with the momentum," he says. "In the last game, we spoke about us finishing our games. Magnificent to watch Rahul bhai in the middle. Initially, there is something in this wicket for the bowlers. We'll see how it pans out. 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," Gill said.

Who is Nishant Sindhu?

A promising all-rounder from Haryana, Sindhu is a left-handed batter who can also contribute with slow left-arm orthodox bowling. Sindhu first grabbed attention in the 2018-19 U-16 Vijay Merchant Trophy, where he scored 572 runs and picked up 23 wickets, playing a key role in Haryana winning the title.

He then made his mark on the international stage at the Under-19 level. Sindhu was part of India’s squad that won the 2022 ICC Under-19 World Cup, contributing with both bat and ball. He picked up six wickets in five matches and also scored a crucial half-century during the tournament.

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At the domestic level, he made his first-class debut in the Ranji Trophy in 2022, followed by appearances in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and Vijay Hazare Trophy. His performances earned him a contract with Chennai Super Kings for the 2023 and 2024 IPL seasons. He did not get a chance to make his debut there.

Gujarat Titans picked him up for INR 30 lakh at the IPL 2025 mega auction and retained him for the 2026 season. Now, after waiting for his opportunity, Sindhu finally gets his chance to make his IPL debut in GT vs PBKS game.