IPL 2026 | 'Rashid Khan's mystery factor fading away': Ex-India batter to Gujarat Titans
Gujarat Titans face a selection dilemma with all-rounders Shahrukh Khan and Rahul Tewatia for IPL 2026. Expert Sanjay Bangar suggests a strategic approach, potentially using one as an impact player. Bangar also notes a perceived reduction in Rashid Khan's mystery factor due to increased familiarity among batters and pitch conditions.
NEW DELHI: With a strong squad at their disposal, the Gujarat Titans face a tricky task in finalising their playing combination for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. The Shubman Gill-led side will have to take a key call on two versatile all-rounders — Shahrukh Khan and Rahul Tewatia — both of whom bring valuable finishing ability in the death overs. Speaking on JioHotstar’s ‘Game Plan – Know Your Team’, JioStar expert Sanjay Bangar shared his assessment of how GT could approach their combinations this season.
“One thing GT have done is persist with the players they selected in the first place. They have stuck with Shahrukh Khan and Rahul Tewatia. Washington Sundar has been given a role in T20 cricket for them.
Not necessarily with the ball, but he comes in to bat in important positions, maybe at number four. I see a similar role for Washington Sundar, more with the bat. We hope Shahrukh Khan repays the faith shown by the GT management in him.
He showed signs of improvement last season, scoring runs at crucial times. If both Tewatia and Shahrukh play, one could be used as an impact player. If they contribute lower down the order, that will help GT a lot because most runs came from the top order last time," said Bangar.