Cricholic
Rashid Khan is rarely outperformed, especially by a fellow spinner with less experience. However, in a surprising turn of events during the IPL 2025 clash against RCB, Sai Kishore delivered a standout performance. While Rashid endured one of his toughest outings, conceding 54 runs without a wicket, Sai Kishore impressed with figures of 2/22 in his four overs. He dismissed Jitesh Sharma and Krunal Pandya, making a significant impact.
A key battle unfolded between Rashid and Liam Livingstone. The English batter had previously struggled, scoring just 27 runs off 22 balls. This time, however, Livingstone turned the tables, smashing 39 runs off 17 deliveries. It was one of the highest scores ever recorded against the leg-spinner in a T20 game.
Sai Kishore’s Strategy vs Rashid’s Challenges
Rashid bowled at high speeds, averaging 94.68 kph, with all 24 deliveries exceeding 90 kph. In contrast, Sai Kishore varied his pace and trajectory effectively. He operated between 83.70 and 97.90 kph, averaging 88.88 kph. His ability to mix up deliveries proved crucial in deceiving batters. Against Jitesh, he slowed the ball to 89.4 kph after back-to-back 90+ kph deliveries, forcing a mistimed slog. He then dismissed Krunal Pandya with a carrom ball that drifted in before turning away.
Sai Kishore also maintained superior control over his lengths. He landed 68% of his deliveries in the good-to-back-of-length zone (4-7m), while Rashid managed just 42%. This match highlighted the Afghan spinner’s ongoing struggle with consistency.
A Worrying Trend for the Afghan Star
Since IPL 2023, Rashid has played only five T20 matches due to a long-standing shoulder injury. Over the last two IPL seasons, he has taken just 11 wickets in 15 games. His economy rate has risen to 8.92, which is higher than his usual standards. The Impact Player rule has encouraged batters to be more aggressive, but his key issue has been inconsistent lengths. He has been bowling fuller deliveries more often.
Recent data indicates that since 2024, 22.80% of his deliveries have been in the full-length zone. He has conceded runs at a costly 15.57 per over—almost double his economy rate of 7.92 when bowling shorter. In each of his four most expensive IPL spells (minimum two overs), he struggled with over-pitching. Between 2019 and 2022, he kept his full-length deliveries under 20%, making it harder for batters to attack due to his low trajectory and pace.
Can the Leg-Spinner Find His Form Again?
For the first time in his career spanning over a decade and 450+ T20 matches, Rashid is facing a significant dip in form. His ability to adapt will be crucial in regaining his rhythm. With the IPL 2025 season still underway, all eyes are on him to see how he responds to this challenge.
