Self-doubt doesn’t spare even the greatest of athletes, and Rashid Khan, often hailed as the best T20 spinner in the world, has had to wrestle with it during a surprisingly lean IPL 2025 season. However, what makes teams like the Gujarat Titans stand apart is how they rally behind their stars even in challenging times — something that was on full display at Eden Gardens against the Kolkata Knight Riders.
Batting first, Gujarat posted a commanding total of 198, largely powered by skipper Shubman Gill’s majestic 90 off just 55 balls. Along with Sai Sudharsan’s support, Gill ensured GT’s top order set the tone early. But it wasn’t just their batting that clicked. With the ball, Gujarat struck early in the powerplay, and the moment everyone had been waiting for finally arrived when Rashid Khan got among the wickets.
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Having taken just four wickets prior to this game, Rashid Khan dismissed the dangerous Sunil Narine and looked visibly more in rhythm. Then came a dramatic eighth over that showcased the trust his teammates have in him. On the first ball, Rashid bowled a sharp leg-break to Venkatesh Iyer that struck him on the pads. The appeal was immediate but turned down. While Gill seemed inclined to walk away, it was Rahul Tewatia who stepped in decisively, urging the captain to take the DRS with a hunch that it might be an umpire’s call at worst.
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As the replay played on the big screen, Mohammed Siraj wrapped his arms around Rashid from behind, sharing a light-hearted moment of encouragement. Siraj even prepared to celebrate the decision, but though the review confirmed the height made it an umpire’s call, the camaraderie among the Titans was the true highlight.
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Even though the verdict didn’t add a wicket to Rashid’s tally, his wide grin remained. Surrounded by teammates who continue to believe in him, Rashid Khan may well have turned a corner — and for GT, that’s a sign of even greater things to come.
