Rashid Khan is back doing things he usually cherishes. Not only does he enjoy challenges to take wickets cheaply but also thrives to score brisk runs down the order. In second innings of the chase at Trent Bridge, it seemed Superchargers were in complete command of the situation but a quickfire 25 off 12 by Rashid gave Rockets the impetus to overcome an average par score set by the opposition. After Qais the other day, it was the turn of Khan to bag ‘player of the match’ award at The Hundred for his 3/31 & 25 runs in double quick time.
Regular loss of wickets peg back Superchargers, Rashid picks up three
Stokes decided to bat first after winning the toss but their batters never gained any momentum courtesy to some tight spells bowled by the spinners. Although Rashid was mostly off the target both in terms of lengths and lines but somehow managed to get those crucial breakthroughs. In his first set, got the better of Adam Lyth by knocking the sticks round his legs. In his last over, forced Cadmore to go for a cross batted swat only to witness the stumps knock over. Followed that up by foxing Mujeeb who went for a down-the-wicket hoick only to see the ball settle down into the palms of deep mid-on.
Rockets stuble at forefront but Rashid provides impetus & Hales executes the chase
During the break, Rockets might not have dreamt that a target of 133 would give them so much goosebumps. The trio of Adil, Mujeeb & Parkinson didn’t allow Rockets to blaze ahead. Not only did they dry up the runs but also picked up wickets regularly. At one stage, Rockets were huffing & puffing at 58/6 in the 12th over. But Rashid came out with a positive intent from ball one. He was particularly severe against Adil against whom he scored 15 runs in his last. By then, the momentum of the game had swung in Rocket’s favor. Hales who seemed to crawl thus far, changed gears & successfully chased down the target with six balls to spare.
Mujeeb’s effort with ball came in a losing cause for Superchargers
Mujeeb also had a good game with the ball. Although his 2/24 came in a losing cause for the Superchargers. Other than scalping two batsmen plumb in front, maintained pressure from his end by not leaking too much. After a forgettable first game of the Hundred, settled down nicely into the groove. In today’s game, Qais is going to take the field against the Braves at Cardiff.