Has the Novelty of Rashid Khan Diminished Ahead of IPL 2026?
Synopsis
As IPL 2026 approaches, former Indian captain Anil Kumble emphasizes the diminishing impact of Rashid Khan on the Gujarat Titans. With the novelty factor fading, Kumble suggests the need for greater contributions from other bowlers to keep the team competitive. Will Rashid reclaim his former glory in the upcoming season?
Key Takeaways
Rashid Khan's impact on the Gujarat Titans has diminished.
The team needs more contributions from other bowlers.
Rashid had a challenging season in IPL 2025.
Injuries can significantly affect player performance.
Adaptability is key in T20 cricket.
New Delhi, Dec 28 (NationPress) Former Indian cricket captain Anil Kumble opines that the Gujarat Titans (GT), the champions of IPL 2022, can no longer rely heavily on the leg-spin wizardry of Rashid Khan. He asserts that the Afghan sensation's influence has lessened, and the initial excitement surrounding his performances has worn off a little.
The Titans, who exited in the Eliminator round of IPL 2025, previously had one of the league's most formidable bowling line-ups. However, Rashid had a disappointing season, securing just nine wickets with an average of 57.11 and an economy rate of 9.35. Notably, he also allowed 33 sixes, the highest number by any bowler in a single IPL season, as batsmen found effective strategies against him.
Kumble emphasized that the Shubman Gill-led team must seek greater input from left-arm spinner R Sai Kishore and off-spinning all-rounders Washington Sundar and Rahul Tewatia to maintain their competitive edge in IPL 2026.
“The novelty of Rashid Khan has diminished. There are now several bowlers comparable to him, making him less intimidating than before. His workload needs careful management, alongside bowlers like Sai Kishore. Additionally, Rahul Tewatia and Washington Sundar should step up for GT this upcoming season,” Kumble remarked during an interview on JioStar.
Rashid's performance for GT in IPL 2024 was also moderate, with 10 wickets in 12 matches at an average of 36.70 and an economy rate of 8.40. He began his IPL journey with Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in 2017 and transitioned to GT in 2022, where he was instrumental in their title victory in the debut season.
The leg-spinner has attributed his ongoing struggles in T20 cricket to a back surgery he underwent in 2023 after the Men’s ODI World Cup in India. He returned to play just months post-operation, which left him without adequate time to regain his bowling form and precision.
Point of View
The decline of Rashid Khan's performance raises questions about the evolving dynamics in T20 cricket. While iconic players like Khan have shaped the game, the emergence of new talent necessitates adaptability and strategic shifts within teams. The Gujarat Titans must recalibrate their strategies to sustain competitiveness in IPL 2026.
NationPress
12 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Anil Kumble say about Rashid Khan's performance?
Anil Kumble stated that Rashid Khan's impact has diminished and the novelty factor has worn off, suggesting that the Gujarat Titans need contributions from other bowlers to remain competitive.
How did Rashid Khan perform in IPL 2025?
In IPL 2025, Rashid Khan had a poor season, taking only nine wickets at an average of 57.11 and an economy rate of 9.35, while also conceding the most sixes in a single IPL season.
What are the implications for the Gujarat Titans in IPL 2026?
The Gujarat Titans need to seek greater contributions from bowlers like R Sai Kishore, Washington Sundar, and Rahul Tewatia to stay competitive in IPL 2026.
Why has Rashid Khan struggled recently?
Rashid Khan has linked his struggles in T20 cricket to a back surgery he underwent in 2023, which hindered his ability to regain bowling rhythm and accuracy.
What is the significance of Anil Kumble's comments?
Kumble's comments reflect a significant shift in the IPL, highlighting the necessity for teams to adapt as the competition evolves and new talents emerge.
