Nick Knight inquired about Rashid Khan’s form in IPL 2025, to which Sai Kishore quickly defended him, calling Rashid the ‘best T20 bowler in the world.’

Sai Kishore Defends Rashid Khan Amidst Criticism of His IPL Form

Rashid Khan is enduring one of his worst seasons in the IPL, with just six wickets in eight matches and an economy rate creeping towards 10 runs per over. This follows a disappointing IPL 2024, where he managed only 10 wickets in 12 games at an economy rate of 8.40. Despite these struggles, Rashid’s form remains a contentious topic, particularly among commentators. Former England batter and IPL broadcaster Nick Knight found this out firsthand when he questioned Rashid’s performance during a post-match interview with his spin partner, Sai Kishore.

Before Gujarat Titans’ match against Kolkata Knight Riders, Rashid had only taken four wickets in seven games. However, he showed signs of returning to form with figures of 2/25, contributing significantly to GT’s 39-run victory. Knight asked Sai Kishore about Rashid’s form, noting the challenging tournament for the Afghan spinner. In response, Kishore immediately defended Rashid, declaring him the “best T20 bowler in the world” and stressing that the team has always supported him.

“We never doubt him. That’s why we want him to do well,” said Kishore. Knight reassured that commentators also recognize Rashid’s talent and hope for his success, further emphasizing the team’s belief in the spinner’s abilities.

Rashid, Kishore shine after Gill’s dominance

Shubman Gill led from the front with a brilliant 55-ball 90, as Gujarat Titans posted a competitive total of 198/3. He and Sai Sudharsan, who scored 52, laid the foundation with a 114-run partnership for the first wicket. Their strong start allowed Gujarat to set a challenging target for Kolkata Knight Riders.

The Gujarat bowlers then stepped up to restrict Kolkata to 159/8, with captain Ajinkya Rahane scoring a lone half-century (50) in a valiant attempt to chase down the target. “The talk has been about playing good cricket, not about the results. Our fielding was very good today. We are just addressing areas where we can play better as a team,” said Sai Kishore, who played a key role in dismissing Venkatesh Iyer and conceding just 19 runs in his three overs.

Kolkata’s chase faltered early, losing Rahmanullah Gurbaz for a duck in the first over. Despite a fighting 41-run stand between Sunil Narine and Rahane, Gujarat’s spinners turned the game in their favor. Rashid Khan and Kishore took important wickets, while Prasidh Krishna picked up two wickets in one over to seal the win, taking his season tally to 16 wickets.