Indian cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar has likened Gujarat Titans vice-captain Rashid Khan to England Test captain Ben Stokes after the Afghan star's magnificent knock helped Gujarat to a thrilling last-ball victory over Rajasthan Royals in Jaipur.
Rashid first bowled superbly to dismiss Jos Buttler early and then played the role of finisher, smashing 24 runs off just 11 balls to inspire his side's sensational victory. With the win, their third of the season, Gujarat proved the doubters wrong by halting their slide and securing their first away win under Shubman Gill's captaincy.
Gavaskar praised Rashid not only for his wicket-taking ability but also for stepping up with the bat when his team needed him most. Rashid's batting, bowling and electric fielding skills show why franchises want him. As Gavaskar noted, Rashid's fearless fielding stands out - unlike bowlers who might shy away from diving for fear of injury, Rashid always gives 100% for his team.
Gavaskar was equally effusive in his praise of Ben Stokes, the England all-rounder renowned for his aggressive batting, powerful bowling, and electric fielding. Like Rashid, Stokes embodies the ethos of total commitment to the team:
“There is someone who is not playing in the IPL, but shares the same energy, Ben Stokes. Whenever Stokes is batting, bowling, or fielding, he gives 100% effort. He’s the type of player coaches and captains want him their team – someone who exerts full effort despite not always succeeding. You can count on Stokes to constantly put forth his best, with an unwavering commitment of 100%.”
In an IPL 2024 match on Wednesday, GT staged a dramatic comeback to beat Rajasthan by three wickets. Sanju Samson (68*) and Riyan Parag (76) smashed a blistering half-century in a 130-run partnership to lift RR to a daunting 196-3. GT looked doomed at 157-6, but Rashid Khan (24*) and Rahul Tewatia (22) pulled off a thrilling last-ball victory.