Tamil Nadu's star batter Shahrukh Khan shared his excitement on linking up with Gujarat Titans for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season. He expressed eagerness to play with David Miller, his 'hero', and acknowledged being a great admirer of the South African cricketer.
Shahrukh was a hot topic during the IPL 2024 auction on December 19, ultimately being snapped up by Gujarat Titans for INR 7.40 crore. He will play under the leadership of the youthful Shubman Gill, with the Narendra Modi Ahmedabad Stadium as his home turf.
The bidding for Shahrukh saw intense competition between his former team Punjab Kings and Gujarat Titans. Eventually, Gujarat Titans, with their substantial budget, succeeded in securing him. His addition significantly bolsters the team, which was the runner-up last year, complementing the talents of Rahul Tewatia and David Miller as formidable finishers.
In the past two years with PBKS, Shahrukh had been a key player, known for his clean striking ability. Additionally, his capability as a bowler makes him an invaluable asset for any team.
Shahrukh is set to join forces with David Miller as a finisher for GT, and it's widely anticipated that their partnership could swiftly turn the tide in games for the team. As a power hitter, Shahrukh will be shouldering high expectations in the league, which may very well spur him to deliver his best performance.
“I’ve been a big fan of him for the past 10 years. He’s the guy who comes in big games. He’s the guy who wins big games. To be playing alongside him I’m looking forward to a lot more. The way he’s calm under pressure and the way he’s played for SA and GT," he told the broadcasters.
“I’ll be playing at No. 6 or 7 for sure. The way I look at it, I’m ready for anything. I’ve batted at No. 4 in tournaments in Chennai. The way Gujarat Titans have made their players comfortable, I’m very happy to go there,” he added
The 28-year-old star batter also expressed his willingness to contribute as a bowler in the IPL 2024.
“We’ve got 4 Chennai boys and great to be a part of that squad because of the way they’ve played the last 2 years. 100% can bowl. Got my bowling going in the TNPL and that helps here to. Definitely want to chip in with the ball if given the opportunity,” he concluded.
In his IPL career to date, Shahrukh has participated in 33 matches, amassing 426 runs with an average of 20.29 and a strike rate of 134.81. He is expected to take on the role of a finisher for GT in the 17th edition of the IPL which is likely to start from the last week of March next year.
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