Rashid Khan just like Ben Stokes: Sunil Gavaskar in awe of GT star after Jaipur heist

India great Sunil Gavaskar likened GT vice-captain Rashid Khan to England Test captain Ben Stokes.

After the Afghanistan star produced a magical performance to help Gujarat secure a last-ball win over RR in the IPL 2024 match in Jaipur. Rashid Khan first bowled a superb spell to dismiss Jos Buttler cheaply and then donned the finisher’s role to hit 24 off 11 balls and inspire his side to a sensational win. Gujarat won their 3rd match of the season as they proved the naysayers wrong, arresting a slide and winning their first match away from home under Shubman Gill’s captaincy.

Gavaskar praised Rashid not just for his ability to clinch crucial wickets but also for his contributions with the bat when his team needs him the most. Rashid’s batting, bowling, and exceptional fielding efforts demonstrate why he is highly sought after by franchises worldwide. Gavaskar pointed out Rashid’s fearless approach to fielding, emphasising that unlike some bowlers who might hesitate to dive due to the risk of injury, Rashid is always ready to give his 100% to the team.

Rashid Khan wants to give 100 percent to the team: Gavaskar

“Rashid did pick the wickets like he usually does when it was needed with the bat, he came in and delivered. And this is the reason why he is such a wanted player by franchises all over the world. They want him because they see his commitment, batting, bowling, fielding. Look at the way he gives everything while he is fielding. Bowlers sometimes can be a little bit concerned about diving on their bowling shoulder because if they dislocate the shoulder then their careers are in danger, not with Rashid Khan. Rashid wants to give 100% to the team,” Sunil Gavaskar said while speaking on Star Sports.

Similarly, Gavaskar spoke highly of Ben Stokes, the English all-rounder known for his fiery batting, effective bowling, and dynamic fielding. Stokes, like Rashid, embodies the spirit of giving it all for the team’s cause.

Gavaskar admired Stokes for his intensity and dedication across all facets of the game, noting that such players are the ones coaches and captains dream of having in their squads. Even though they might not deliver in every game, the effort and commitment they bring to the field are unquestionable.

“There is another cricketer who’s not playing in this IPL. Something similar Ben Stokes. Anytime you see Ben Stokes, batting, bowling, fielding, he’s 100%. He gives it everything and, you know, those are the cricketers that coaches want, captains want. They might not always deliver. But you know that the percent of the effort is never going to be anything less than 100%,” Gavaskar added.

GT pulled off a thrilling three-wicket win over Rajasthan in the IPL 2024 match on Wednesday. Riyan Parag (76) and Sanju Samson (68 not out) slammed cracking fifties and shared a 130-run partnership to power RR to a challenging 196 for three. In reply, GT looked down and out at 157 for six in 17.3 overs but Rashid Khan (24 not out) and Rahul Tewatia (22) took the team home on the last delivery of the innings.