The T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 Clash India and South Africa Ahmedabad saw a heavy presence in the commentary box that had nothing to do with batting averages. Sundar PichaiThe CEO of Google and Alphabet Inc. joined the former India coach Ravi Shastri Sunday during a mid-innings break to share his lifelong passion for the game.
Google CEO Sundar Pichai reveals cricket idol during IND vs SA Super 8 clash
Born in Madurai, Pichai took a nostalgic trip down memory lane, describing himself as an ardent cricket fan whose childhood was defined by the legendary exploits of India’s original ‘Little Master’. Sunil Gavaskar.
During an on-air guest appearance, Pichai, 53, painted a vivid picture of growing up in a cricket-mad Indian household. He recounted his days in the West Indies listening to crackling radio commentary for matches, often surrounded by his grandparents. Pichai revealed that his admiration for Sunil Gavaskar was so deep that it took physical form on his bedroom walls as a daily inspiration long before he became one of the most powerful figures in the global tech industry.
“Sunny (Sunil Gavaskar) was a big idol for me. I used to have a Sportstar poster on my wall. I have been following him since I was very young. I used to listen to him (commentary) on the radio along with my grandson, grandmother etc.” Pichai said.
The occasion was made all the more remarkable as Pichai was given the honor of carrying the ICC T20 World Cup trophy onto the field, walking shoulder to shoulder with his childhood hero Sunil Gavaskar. The former India captain later reflected on their warm relationship, noting that it was a unique experience to meet a fan who has achieved such amazing international success. According to India Today, Gavaskar said that when they took to the field, both men shared a common hope that India’s current stars would lift the silverware at the end of the tournament.
“Well, I’ve met him before. He told me before about having my posters in his bedroom. It’s always nice to meet someone who’s a fan of yours, a kind person, and someone who’s done a lot in his career and achieved a lot in the tech world. We both hope Suryakum gets his hands on the World Cup trophy when he leaves. I’m sure we’re both praying for that.” Gavaskar said.
Sundar Pichai🎙️
Sunil Gavaskar was his childhood idol and he followed cricket from a young age. He shared this during a mid-innings chat with Ravi Shastri during the India vs South Africa Super 8 match.
Earlier, Pichai and Gavaskar presented the T20 World Cup trophy… pic.twitter.com/ZqHuABReHh
— . (@MaxCrik8) February 22, 2026
Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026: R Ashwin points out two key mistakes by India after Super 8 loss to South Africa
Sundar Pichai witnessed the Ahmedabad clash along with ICC Chairman Jay Shah
After his stint on the mic, Pichai joined the ICC chairmanship Jay Shah witnessing what turned out to be a sober night for Indian cricket fans in the stands. While the tech giant enjoyed the spectacle as part of Google’s association with the tournament, it was the action on the pitch that the visitors loved. David Miller (63) and Devald Brewis (45) powered South Africa to a mammoth 187/7 while India’s batting line-up stumbled; under the pressure of persecution. Despite a star-studded support in the pavilion, India scored 111, handing the Proteas a massive 76-run win and leaving the hosts with an uphill task in the remaining Super 8 fixtures.
Also READ: India coach Washington explains why Sundar bowed out to Axar Patel after defeat to South Africa
