India cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar compared Gujarat Titans vice-captain Rashid Khan to England Test captain Ben Stokes following the Afghan star’s magnificent performance that propelled Gujarat to a thrilling last-ball victory over Rajasthan Royals in Jaipur.

Rashid first bowled excellently to dismiss Jos Buttler early, and then assumed the finisher’s role by smashing 24 runs off just 11 balls to inspire his team’s sensational win. With this victory, their third of the season, Gujarat proved doubters wrong by halting their slide and securing their first away win under Shubman Gill’s captaincy.

Gavaskar lauded Rashid not only for his wicket-taking ability, but also for stepping up with the bat when his team needed him the most. Rashid’s skills in batting, bowling, and electric fielding show why franchises want him. As Gavaskar noted, Rashid’s fearless fielding stands out – unlike bowlers who may shy away from diving due to injury concerns, Rashid always gives 100% for his team.

“Rashid Khan once again showed excellence in this match. With the ball, he picked vital wicket when the team needed it most. With the bat, he came in and delivered crucial runs. This exemplifies why franchises across the world want Rashid. His s batting, bowling, and fielding abilities make him a prized asset. Unlike some bowlers, Rashid gives his all in the field, diving fearlessly despite the risk of injury. His wholehearted commitment and multi-dimensional skills make him an invaluable team player.” stated Gavaskar.

Similarly, Gavaskar lavished praise on Ben Stokes, the English all-rounder renowned for his aggressive batting, potent bowling, and electric fielding. Like Rashid, Stokes personifies the ethos of total commitment to the team’s purpose.

“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 im 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%.”

GT staged a dramatic comeback to beat Rajasthan by three wickets in an IPL 2024 match on Wednesday. Sanju Samson (68*) and Riyan Parag (76) hit blistering half-centuries in a 130-run partnership that propelled RR to a daunting 196-3. GT appeared doomed at 157-6 but Rashid Khan (24*) and Rahul Tewatia (22) pulled off a thrilling last-ball victory.

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