Anil Kumble Analyzes Rashid Khan's Evolving Role for Gujarat Titans in IPL 2026
Strategic Insights on Rashid Khan's Role
New Delhi, December 29: Anil Kumble, the former Indian cricket star, has shared his thoughts on the changing dynamics of Afghanistan's leg-spinner Rashid Khan's position within the Gujarat Titans for the upcoming 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) season.
During the 'TATA IPL Auction Review' on JioStar, Kumble emphasized the importance of managing Rashid's workload, particularly alongside bowlers like Sai Kishore. He also noted that players such as Rahul Tewatia and Washington Sundar could play a more significant role for the Gujarat Titans in IPL 2026.
Kumble remarked, “The novelty surrounding Rashid Khan has diminished somewhat. There are now several bowlers with similar skills, making him less intimidating than before. His workload management is crucial, especially with bowlers like Sai Kishore. Additionally, Rahul Tewatia and Washington Sundar can provide more value to GT this season.”
Fellow JioStar expert and former cricketer Irfan Pathan also weighed in on the Gujarat Titans' confidence in veteran all-rounder Jason Holder from the West Indies.
Pathan stated, “The decision to rely on Jason Holder is intriguing. He excels with the new ball, and his batting, particularly his ability to hit sixes, has improved significantly. GT's strength lies in their top three batsmen: Shubman Gill, Sai Sudharsan, and Jos Buttler. How they utilize Washington Sundar will be crucial, as his batting has also seen enhancements. The role of Glenn Phillips, or whoever occupies the number four or five spot, will be vital.”
Abhinav Mukund, another JioStar expert, elaborated on the Gujarat Titans' strategy of selecting left-arm pacers and all-rounders like Jason Holder for the IPL 2026 tournament.
Mukund explained, “The Gujarat Titans have a preference for fast bowlers, particularly left-arm pacers like Prithviraj Yarra and Luke Wood. Ashok Sharma had an impressive Syed Mushtaq Ali season. Jason Holder's inclusion is strategic; they need someone capable of batting and finishing innings at number six or seven while also bowling a few overs. They aim for a strong finish. Given their robust top order, they felt this was necessary. Last season, GT often didn’t field all four overseas players. If Glenn Phillips is fit, he might play in the middle order while Jason Holder finishes the innings. Overall, they appear to be a formidable team with exceptional young Indian talent. I’m curious to see who will manage them from the bench. Best of luck to Parthiv Patel and Ashish Nehra.”