IPL 2023: Didn’t have the consistency which makes him so difficult to face – Tom Moody on Rashid Khan’s bowling performance in final vs CSK

Former Australian all-rounder Tom Moody feels Gujarat Titans leg-spinner Rashid Khan was not at his absolute best in the all-important IPL 2023 final against Chennai Super Kings at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad on Tuesday.

While defending 171 runs (DLS score) in 15 overs, Rashid could not be right on the money for GT. Rashid was given the final over the powerplay (4th over) by Hardik Pandya but the Afghanistan leg-spinner was taken for 17 runs by CSK openers – Devon Conway and Ruturaj Gaikwad.

Khan then conceded 13 runs in his second over and he was smashed for 14 runs in his final over. Ergo, the talisman went wicketless and conceded a total of 44 runs in his quota of three overs to gave away his runs at an economy rate of 14.70.

Rashid is well known to bamboozle the best players in the world with his tricks but he made the mistake of bowling a few deliveries in the slot and he was punished by the CSK batters.

On the other hand, Rashid Khan’s compatriot Noor Ahmad did a fantastic job for GT as the left-arm spinner scalped two wickets and conceded only 17 runs in his quota of three overs.

Tom Moody said on ESPN Cricinfo, “I don’t think he [Rashid Khan] was consistent with his lengths. He was either too short or too full. His partner-in-crime, Noor Ahmad, had the complete opposite experience, and he bowled beautifully.

“I am sure when Rashid looks back on this game and the three overs that he bowled, he would see that he didn’t have the consistency which makes him so difficult to face.”

Meanwhile, former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar added that Rashid Khan made no impact at all for GT and he made life easier for CSK.

“The big story also is Rashid Khan. In a big match, a final game, where so much hinged on him, went for plenty. Made no impact at all. In fact, was one of the bowlers who made the job easier for CSK.”

CSK was able to clinch the thrilling contest after Ravindra Jadeja smashed a four and a six on the last two balls against Mohit Sharma.