R Sai Kishore, the left-arm spinner for India and Gujarat Titans, has strongly defended Rashid Khan, responding to ongoing commentary about the Afghan spinner’s form. Despite criticism over Rashid’s recent performances, Kishore emphasised that within the team, no one questions Rashid’s abilities. He made it clear that Rashid is regaining his wicket-taking touch and that the team remains fully supportive of him.

Rashid Khan had a tough IPL 2024, picking up just 10 wickets in 12 matches, though his economy rate of 8.4 was respectable. This year, his struggles continued as he has managed only six wickets in eight games, with his economy rate rising to 9.26.

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During a post-match interview, former England opener Nick Knight pointed out Rashid’s underwhelming tournament, prompting Kishore’s response. “He’s one of the best T20 bowlers in the world. He’s getting his wicket-taking knack back,” Sai Kishore said, brushing off the doubts expressed by commentators.

In the Gujarat Titans’ recent match against the Kolkata Knight Riders, the bowlers, led by Rashid and Prasidh Krishna (both taking 2/25), restricted KKR to 159/8. This victory marked Gujarat’s sixth win in eight games, strengthening their position at the top of the IPL standings with 12 points, two ahead of the second-placed Delhi Capitals.

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Kolkata’s chase struggled early as Mohammed Siraj removed Rahmanullah Gurbaz in the opening over. Sunil Narine’s short 17-run cameo ended when Rashid dismissed him, and the Afghan bowler also claimed the vital wicket of Andre Russell for 21. This was a vital performance for Rashid, showing that he is finding his rhythm again after a difficult start to the season.