Gujarat Titans' spin wizard Rashid Khan created history during Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on Sunday, March 31. He surpassed Mohammed Shami's record to become the Gujarat Titans leading wicket-taker in the IPL. The Afghan spinner achieved this towering feat by dismissing Heinrich Klaasen for 24 runs to clock his 49th wicket for GT. Notably, Shami has 48 wickets for Gujarat-based franchise in IPL history. While Klaasen displayed aggression, particularly with two sixes off the final over by Noor Ahmed, his struggle against Rashid continued. Klaasen has consistently faced difficulties against the Afghan spinner, averaging a low strike rate of just 77. This trend remained unchanged in their latest encounter. Rashid outsmarted Klaasen with a deceptive delivery, a full toss that dipped and skidded through, sending the bails flying.
Rashid Khan extends dominance
Heinrich Klaasen's aggressive knock was short-lived. He managed just 24 runs off 13 balls before Rashid Khan put an end to his innings. For Rashid Khan, this dismissal was just another chapter in his Gujarat Titans story. Since joining the team for a hefty Rs 15 crore in the 2022 mega-auction, he's become a vital part of their success. His impressive journey with the Titans follows a strong showing with the Sunrisers Hyderabad, where he debuted in the IPL back in 2017. Known for his lethal right-arm leg spin, Rashid Khan continues to be a force to be reckoned with, consistently contributing to his team's victories.
SRH face uphill battle after strong start
Batting first, SRH had a promising start, reaching 58/1 after the powerplay thanks to a blazing knock from Travis Head. However, their momentum fizzled out as crucial wickets fell at regular intervals, disrupting their batting rhythm. Gujarat Titans' bowlers cleverly shifted their strategy towards using slower deliveries in the later overs, effectively squeezing the runs and exposing Hyderabad's vulnerability against spin. But it was Mohit Sharma who was pick of the bowlers for GT with a brilliant spell in which he grabbed three wickets, sending Washington, Shahbaz Ahmed and Abhishek Sharma.
SRH ended up posting 162/8 while with Abdul Samad and Abhishek Sharma remained the top scorers for their team with 29 runs each.
In reply, GT chased down the target with five balls and seven wickets to spare.
MORE ON SPORTS TAK:
Babar Azam reappointed as Pakistan captain but not in all three formats; check complete details here
