The T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 clash between India and South Africa in Ahmedabad saw a heavy-hitting presence in the commentary box that had nothing to do with batting averages. Sundar Pichai, the CEO of Google and Alphabet Inc., joined former India coach Ravi Shastri during the mid-innings break on Sunday to share his lifelong passion for the game.
Google CEO Sundar Pichai reveals his cricketing idol during IND vs SA Super 8 clash
Pichai, who was born in Madurai, took a nostalgic trip down memory lane, describing himself as an ardent cricket enthusiast whose childhood was defined by the legendary exploits of India’s original ‘Little Master,’ Sunil Gavaskar.
During his guest appearance on air, the 53-year-old Pichai painted a vivid picture of his upbringing in a cricket-crazy Indian household. He recounted the days of listening to crackling radio commentary for matches held in the West Indies, often surrounded by his grandfather and granduncle. Pichai revealed that his admiration for Sunil Gavaskar was so profound that it took a physical form on his bedroom walls, serving 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 the Sportstar poster on my wall. I have followed it since my very young days. I used to listen to it [commentary] on the radio for the games in the West Indies with my granddad, granduncle, and so on. I have always been into the game.” Pichai said.
The occasion was made even more significant as Pichai was given the honor of carrying the ICC T20 World Cup trophy onto the field, walking side-by-side with his childhood hero, Sunil Gavaskar. The former India captain later reflected on their warm relationship, noting that it is a unique experience to meet a fan who has achieved such staggering international success. As per India Today, Gavaskar shared that during their walk to the pitch, both men shared a common hope, that India’s current stars would eventually lift the silverware at the end of the tournament.
“Well, I’ve met him before. Earlier on, he had told me about having my posters in his bedroom. It always feels nice to meet somebody who’s been a fan of yours, a well-wisher, and someone who has done so well in his career and achieved so much in the tech world. As we were walking out with the World Cup trophy, we both said we hoped Suryakumar Yadav would get his hands on it on the 8th. And I’m sure we’re both praying that happens.” Gavaskar said.
Sundar Pichai🎙️
Sunil Gavaskar was his childhood idol and that he has followed cricket since a young age. He shared this during a mid innings chat with Ravi Shastri in the India vs South Africa Super 8 match.
Earlier, Pichai and Gavaskar unveiled the T20 World Cup trophy… pic.twitter.com/ZqHuABReHh
— . (@MaxCrik8) February 22, 2026
Sundar Pichai witnessed the Ahmedabad clash along with ICC chairman Jay Shah
After his stint on the microphone, Pichai joined ICC Chairman Jay Shah in the stands to witness what turned out to be a sobering night for Indian cricket fans. While the tech giant enjoyed the spectacle as part of Google’s association with the tournament, the action on the field favoured the visitors. David Miller (63) and Dewald Brevis (45) powered South Africa to a formidable 187/7, while India’s batting lineup ‘stumbled; under the pressure of the chase. Despite the star-studded support in the pavilion, India was bundled out for 111, handing the Proteas a massive 76-run victory and leaving the hosts with a mountainous task in their remaining Super 8 fixtures.
