Ravichandran Ashwin stunned by Kagiso Rabada, says “it’s like he’s been possessed”

Ravichandran Ashwin stunned by Kagiso Rabada, says “it’s like he’s been possessed”

Former India offspinner Ashwin lauds Kagiso Rabada’s stellar performance for Gujarat Titans

Former India offspinner Ravichandran Ashwin recently praised the exceptional bowling display by Kagiso Rabada, a key player for the Gujarat Titans. Rabada played a crucial role in Gujarat Titans’ victory over Punjab Kings on May 3, extending their winning streak to three consecutive matches in the ongoing IPL season.

Rabada, Siraj, and Holder shine in GT’s victory

In the match held in Ahmedabad, Mohammed Siraj set the tone for GT by dismissing Priyansh Arya off the second ball of the game. He continued his impressive form by claiming another wicket in the same over, sending Cooper Connolly back to the pavilion for a golden duck. Kagiso Rabada joined the party by removing Prabhsimran Singh in the sixth over and maintaining pressure on Punjab Kings throughout the powerplay.

Jason Holder contributed significantly to GT’s success by taking two quick wickets, leaving Punjab struggling at 47/5 early in the innings. Despite a strong recovery effort by Punjab’s Nehal Wadhera and Marcus Stoinis, Rabada’s consistent bowling restricted their total to 163 runs.

GT’s successful chase led by Sai Sudharsan

During their chase, Sai Sudharsan’s fifty put GT in a strong position to reach the target. However, a spirited fightback from Punjab’s bowlers, led by Arshdeep Singh, caused a middle-order collapse for GT. Washington Sundar’s unbeaten 40 runs in the last over secured the victory for Gujarat Titans.

Ashwin praises Rabada’s exceptional form

Ravichandran Ashwin, in a video on his YouTube channel, lauded Kagiso Rabada’s remarkable performance and described him as being in “spiritual possession” on the field. Ashwin commended Rabada’s aggressive bowling style and impact on the opposition batters, emphasizing his crucial role in GT’s bowling attack.

Ashwin also highlighted the collective effort of GT’s bowlers and Shubman Gill’s effective captaincy, especially acknowledging Jason Holder’s game-changing performance in the match. With high praise for GT’s bowling lineup, Ashwin emphasized how the quality of bowlers can influence a captain’s decision-making and overall team performance.

Rabada’s successful IPL 2026 campaign

Kagiso Rabada’s stellar form in the IPL 2026 season has been reflected in his performance for Gujarat Titans. Currently, Rabada leads GT’s wicket-taking charts and ranks third on the Purple Cap list with 16 wickets from 10 matches. After a slow start, Rabada has picked up momentum in recent games, showcasing consistent performances with an average of 22.5 and an economy rate of 9.23.

Upcoming match for Gujarat Titans

As Gujarat Titans gear up to face Rajasthan Royals in their next match, all eyes will be on Kagiso Rabada to deliver another impactful performance. Both teams are evenly matched with 6 wins each from 10 matches, making it a crucial encounter in the IPL season. With Rabada’s form on the rise, GT will be looking to secure another victory and climb higher in the tournament standings.

Rabada’s Impact Beyond Bowling Stats

While Kagiso Rabada’s bowling figures speak volumes about his talent and skill on the field, his impact on Gujarat Titans goes beyond just numbers. Rabada’s aggressive approach, ability to take crucial wickets, and leadership qualities have made him a vital asset for the team. His presence in the bowling attack not only boosts the team’s confidence but also puts pressure on the opposition batsmen, often leading to breakthroughs at crucial moments in the game.

Moreover, Rabada’s positive attitude and work ethic off the field have also contributed to the team’s overall dynamics. His professionalism, dedication to improvement, and willingness to mentor younger players have earned him respect and admiration from his teammates and fans alike. Rabada’s commitment to excellence sets a high standard for the entire team, inspiring everyone to strive for greatness.

Rabada’s Adaptability and Strategy

One of the key reasons behind Rabada’s success in the IPL 2026 season is his adaptability and strategic approach to bowling. Whether it’s swinging the ball early on, using variations in pace and length, or delivering pinpoint yorkers in the death overs, Rabada showcases a diverse set of skills that keep batsmen on their toes. His ability to read the game, analyze the opposition’s strengths and weaknesses, and adjust his tactics accordingly make him a formidable force on the field.

Rabada’s partnership with other bowlers like Mohammed Siraj and Jason Holder further enhances GT’s bowling arsenal, creating a well-rounded and effective unit. The synergy between the bowlers, backed by smart captaincy from Shubman Gill, has been instrumental in Gujarat Titans’ success so far in the tournament.

Rabada’s Rising Star in IPL

As Kagiso Rabada continues to shine in the IPL 2026 season, his performance has not gone unnoticed by cricket enthusiasts and experts. Many have hailed him as one of the standout performers of the season, with his ability to deliver under pressure and make crucial breakthroughs when needed. Rabada’s consistency, competitive spirit, and hunger for success make him a player to watch out for in the future editions of the IPL.

With each match, Rabada solidifies his reputation as a match-winner and a game-changer for Gujarat Titans. His impact goes beyond just the immediate results on the field, as his presence elevates the team’s performance and inspires confidence in his teammates. As Rabada continues to evolve as a player and refine his skills, he is poised to become a key figure in the world of T20 cricket.

Looking Ahead: Rabada’s Role in GT’s Playoff Hopes

With Gujarat Titans gearing up for the business end of the IPL season, Kagiso Rabada’s role becomes even more crucial in their quest for a playoff spot. As the team faces tough challenges and must maintain consistency to secure a top-four finish, Rabada’s form and leadership will be paramount. His ability to deliver in high-pressure situations, take key wickets, and guide the bowling unit will be pivotal in determining GT’s fate in the tournament.

Fans and experts alike will be eagerly watching Rabada’s performances in the upcoming matches, as he continues to showcase his talent and contribute to Gujarat Titans’ success. With his stellar form and unwavering determination, Rabada remains a key figure in GT’s pursuit of glory in the IPL 2026 season.

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