Afghanistan’s premier spinner, Rashid Khan, has etched his name in IPL history by surpassing India’s ace pacer Jasprit Bumrah to become the third-fastest bowler to reach 150 wickets in the tournament. Rashid attained this milestone during Gujarat Titans’ (GT) season opener against Punjab Kings (PBKS). Despite GT’s narrow 11-run defeat, Rashid’s single wicket in the match was enough to propel him past Bumrah, reaching the 150-wicket landmark in just 122 matches—two fewer than Bumrah’s 124. His tally is now only behind Yuzvendra Chahal and Lasith Malinga, who remain the fastest to achieve the feat.
Rashid’s impact in the IPL extends beyond just his ability to take wickets. Among the leading wicket-takers, only Lasith Malinga boasts a better bowling average, while Sunil Narine remains the only bowler with a superior economy rate. His success has largely been credited to his masterful use of leg-break googlies, which have often left batters clueless. However, in this particular encounter against Punjab Kings, Rashid struggled to maintain his usual economy, finding himself on the receiving end of an aggressive batting display.
Bowling on a flat Ahmedabad pitch, Rashid was taken apart by PBKS batters, conceding 48 runs in his four-over spell at an economy rate of 12.00—an uncharacteristically expensive outing for him. His only moment of success came in the first innings when PBKS had raced to a commanding run rate of over 12 runs per over in the powerplay.
In desperate need of a breakthrough, GT skipper Shubman Gill turned to Rashid. He managed to dismiss debutant Priyansh Arya with a tossed-up delivery that lacked bounce and turn, tempting the batter into a mistimed shot. The ball took a massive top edge, lobbing high in the air before Sai Sudharsan comfortably completed the catch. Priyansh, who had played an aggressive knock of 47, had to make his way back to the pavilion.
Despite this breakthrough, Rashid endured a forgettable night as Punjab Kings continued their assault, finishing their innings at a daunting 243/5. PBKS skipper Shreyas Iyer led the charge with a stunning unbeaten 97, while Shashank Singh provided the final flourish with a rapid 44*.
Chasing 244, Gujarat Titans put up a commendable fight at their home ground but ultimately fell short by 11 runs. Despite Rashid’s individual achievement of entering the elite 150-wicket club, it was a night to forget for the Afghan spinner, as PBKS dominated the game with their power-packed batting display.
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