I never set myself goals that I had to get a lot of wickets: Rashid Khan

Afghanistan spin sensation Rashid Khan is in the news for his brilliant bowling performances for his franchise, Sunrisers Hyderabad. The bowler was picked up by the defending champions at the 2017 Indian Premier League auction which took place in the month of February. He was expected to trouble the opposition with his variations and has been doing exactly that.

He picked up two wickets in his first match against the Royal Challengers Bangalore and was a bit expensive as he went for 36 runs in his four overs. But in the second game, he completely dominated the proceedings with the ball as he picked up three of the most important Gujarat wickets giving away only 19 runs.

Impressed by Rashid’s quality, Sunrisers Hyderabad mentor VVS Laxman donned the interviewer’s hat and asked some questions to the current purple cap holder.

Laxman first asked Rashid about his feelings when he went on to the field in his first match in front of a packed stadium. Rashid admitted that he felt the pressure at the initial stages but also explained that the coaching staffs have supported him really well.

Rashid quoted iplt20.com “It felt great and it is so different from what you watch on TV. To come here, play in the tournament in front of such big crowds and with big names, it feels surreal. I did feel some pressure in the first game, but the coaching staff and captain have motivated me and given me the confidence and self-belief to perform well.”

Speaking about his goals in the Indian Premier League, the leggie said that he likes to focus on the game plan rather than thinking of giving the man of the match performances. His ultimate aim is to contribute to the team in whatever way possible.

“I never set myself goals that I had to get a lot of wickets or put up man of the match performances. All I focused was on bowling according to the conditions and team’s gameplan. All I wanted to do is to give my hundred percent for the team in whatever capacity.”

Rashid showed immense confidence in bowling in the powerplay and got the results he deserved. Reflecting on the same the Afghan bowler quoted “He asked me to bowl in the powerplay in the first match as well and I did a pretty decent job. I took that confidence into this game. Warner asked me to bowl freely without any inhibitions or second thoughts. He told me, Rashid, “Give it your best and don’t worry about going for runs.” I just did that and I got success.