Rashid Khan's IPL Struggles Continue
Khan's recent form has raised concerns, but experts believe he can recover with effective rehab and strength and conditioning. His ability to adapt to the changing game will be crucial in regaining his position as a top spinner.
Rashid Khan, Afghanistan's star spinner, is facing a tough time in the Indian Premier League (IPL), having gone wicketless in three consecutive games and conceding runs at an alarming rate of 10.21 per over. This is only the second time in his IPL career that he has experienced such a drought, with both instances occurring in his last eight games.
Former Australia all-rounder Shane Watson attributes Khan's recent decline to his back surgery after the 2023 ODI World Cup, which kept him out of action for four months. Watson also suggests that Khan's participation in multiple leagues around the world could be affecting his fitness. Meanwhile, former India Strength and Conditioning (S&C) coach Ramji Srinivasan emphasizes the importance of effective rehab and strength and conditioning after surgery, noting that recovery from back surgery can take anywhere from 3-12 months.
In a recent match, Khan had a disappointing spell, conceding 54 runs without taking a wicket, while younger spinner Sai Kishore took 2 wickets for 22 runs. Khan's average speed was 94.68 kph, whereas Kishore varied his pace and trajectory to outfox the batters. Khan's tendency to miss his lengths, particularly on the fuller side, has led to a significant increase in his economy rate. Former Afghanistan assistant coach Raees Ahmadzai believes that Khan is just going through a bad phase and that he will bounce back.
As Khan continues to struggle, his team, Gujarat Titans, will be hoping that he can regain his form and become the go-to man they have relied on since 2022. With his experience and skill, Khan has the potential to bounce back, but for now, he faces the challenge of adapting to the changing nature of the game and overcoming his current struggles.