Having fun to bat at number 4: Shahrukh Khan

In the IPL thus far, right-handed batsman M Shahrukh Khan has been batting at number four and has only faced more than 20 deliveries three times. He came on to bat in the tenth over of Gujarat Titans’ (GT) 2025 IPL encounter against Rajasthan Royals (RR) in Ahmedabad, with GT at 94 for 2.

Before being removed by Maheesh Theekshana, Shahrukh made an instant impression by hitting four fours and two sixes to reach a scorching 36 off just 20 balls. He has been able to thrive and play freely because of the specific role that GT has given him.

“It was rather obvious when they hired me that I would bat at No. 4 or No. 5.

“The left-right combo is another issue. [Sherfane] Rutherford had entered at No. 4 since Sai Sudharsan had left early prior to this match. The combination functions in this way. However, I had some time [to get adjusted] and enjoyed batting at No. 4. On the eve of the encounter against the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), Shahrukh stated, “Game time is important going forward in the tournament.”

In the five games thus far, GT’s top order has scored the majority of the goals, giving the middle order few chances. But when they were put to the test, the middle order performed admirably, propelling GT to the top of the standings.

“The majority of the runs are going to the top three. However, there will come a day when wickets do fall. We have been preparing like that ever since the camps began. We are prepared for every scenario that may arise since we are middle order. The good news is that many people batted in the final game. Therefore, we are ready to perform our duties even if wickets fall,” the 29-year-old stated.

Kishore is performing admirably: Shahrukh Khan

Sai Kishore, a left-arm orthodox spinner for GT, has been one of the most impressive players this IPL season. Since spin ace Rashid Khan hasn’t had much of an impact, Sai Kishore has taken advantage of the situation by capturing 10 wickets thus far. With an economy rate of 7.25 and an average of 13.30, he has bowled with remarkable control and has taken more wickets this season than the Afghan spinner.

“He has always bowled exceptionally well. He is not inferior to other players on the team just because he hasn’t played many games. Regarding his Tamil Nadu teammate, Shahrukh remarked, “He’s always bowled this way and has had the chance over time to show what he is and what skill he has in his kitty.”

The cricket player from Tamil Nadu was thrilled with his teammate’s outstanding performance, complimenting his form, control, and reliable bowling throughout the competition. He also mentioned that he had not often seen him this good.

“He and I have played together a lot in Tamil Nadu, and his contributions to the state are outstanding. Here, he’s maintaining the same form. As a state and teammate, I’m thrilled for him and his progress. He’s getting the ball out of his hand quite nicely. He bowls so wonderfully and with such control that I have never seen him before. There are hardly any loose balls in this competition. It’s nice to see, and I’m glad for him,” he continued.