IPL 2022: Rashid Khan claims that batsmen have stopped taking risks against him
Rashid Khan has been consistent without being exceptional like in previous years, and the reason for that, according to Gujarat Titans spinner Rashid Khan, is the opposition batters’ safety-first approach during this edition of the IPL.
Rashid has six wickets at an economy rate of 6.68 in four matches, but batters from all teams have handled the Afghan great admirably. However, the 23-year-old, who is one of the most in-demand leg-spinners in franchise cricket around the world, is unsurprised and believes it is only a matter of time.
“I’m pleased with how I’ve bowled so far in this competition,” Rashid said in a virtual media interaction. “I don’t care about the score; it’s all about how I bowl.” My bowling is currently excellent. But it’s about the opposition; they’re not willing to take such a risk against you, allowing you to take more wickets,” Rashid explained. “However, whenever I have enough opportunities as a bowler, I will take advantage of them.” So far, I’ve been pleased with my bowling, and my pitching has been excellent,” he added.
On Monday, Rashid had decent figures of 1/28 against his old team Sunrisers Hyderabad, as Gujarat suffered their first defeat after three wins, losing by eight wickets.
Rashid, who is one scalp away from his 100th IPL scalp, admitted that he has always been a slow starter in the IPL. “If you look at my IPL stats, I always have the same (slow) start.” In the first four or five games, I’ve always taken 5-6 wickets, not 12-13. It had always been the same. However, I will make every effort to continue to improve. “I’ll definitely deliver that magical spell at some point,” he promised. Rashid, who has played 80 matches between 2017 and 2022, described his journey thus far as “unbelievable.”
“It’s been incredible coming here from Afghanistan and playing every game since my debut.” I never imagined myself playing in the IPL five years ago. It’s huge to be close to 100 (wickets) and vice-captain of Gujarat. “I’m extremely fortunate and blessed.” Rashid said the best part about being a part of the leadership group as Hardik Pandya’s deputy is having clarity about their individual roles.
“You perform at times and don’t at others. The mindset is that giving one hundred percent is more important than the outcome. We’re all on the same page as a team, and everyone knows what their responsibilities are.” On Thursday, the Gujarat Titans will face the Rajasthan Royals at the DY Patil.
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