IPL 2024: Rashid shines as GT breaks RR’s winning streak
Xtra Time Web Desk: IPL matches are nothing less than thriller stories and today’s match was no different. Gujarat Titans wins a last over nail bitter against Rajasthan Royals at Sawai Mansingh stadium, on 10th April. It was the same GT duo Rashid Khan and Rahul Tewatia who once snatched victory from SRH's mouth in season 2022, helped GT cross the line yet again. Rashid's all round performance took GT home.
GT skipper Shubman Gill won the toss and decided to field first. Riyan Parag and Sanju Samson maintained their scorching form in the IPL, propelling Rajasthan Royals to 196 for 3.
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Despite a shaky start for RR, (43 for 2) in the powerplay, the Titans seemed in control until skipper Samson (68* off 38) and Parag (76 off 48) seized momentum for the Royals. Openers Jos Buttler (8) and Yashasvi Jaiswal (24) got out cheaply. In a stunning display, the Royals hammered 123 runs in the final 10 overs. Parag, excelling in his new role at number 4, showcased his prowess with his third half-century in five innings. He formed a formidable partnership of 130 runs off 78 balls with Samson. Titans suffered as a result of Matthew Wade's dropped catches of Parag on 0 and 6 off star spinner Rashid Khan. Unfortunately for GT, their ground fielding was also below par, adding to their woes.
In response, GT put a neck-to-neck competition. RR's Kuldeep Sen claimed three quick wickets, putting GT's chase in jeopardy. The chase looked alive until GT skipper Gill kept going. Unfortunately, no other batters could cross the 20 + runs mark except for Sai Sudarshan who got out on 35. A drizzle interrupted the match in Jaipur at the 10th-over mark. GT were never in the chase after Shubman’s dismissal, Rashid and Tewatia were at the rescue again. Rashid Khan, known for his finishing prowess, showcased his skills by smashing 24 runs off just 11 balls to lead his team to a remarkable victory. With 15 runs required in the final over, Rashid Khan rose to the occasion, wielding his bat to secure a crucial win, igniting a surge in momentum. The Gujarat dugout erupted in applause, recognizing Rashid's heroic performance with the bat. He was also very economical with the ball, gave only 18 runs in 4 overs and took the big wicket of Buttler.
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RR left one short of becoming the first team to win consecutive 5 matches in IPL history. Also, 199 was GT's joint highest run chase in IPL.
