In a highly anticipated clash between the Gujarat Titans (GT) and the Mumbai Indians (MI) on Sunday (March 24), star Afghanistan spinner Rashid Khan is set to make waves as he takes the field for GT in the IPL 2024. The match, scheduled to take place at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, marks GT’s inaugural game of the season against the formidable five-time champions, MI.

Rashid Khan, a key asset for GT since his acquisition ahead of IPL 2022 for a whopping Rs 15 crore, is on the brink of a significant milestone. With 46 wickets to his credit in 33 IPL matches for GT, the 25-year-old prodigy is just four dismissals away from achieving the remarkable feat of claiming 50 wickets in the prestigious tournament. Should he accomplish this feat during the upcoming match against MI, Rashid will etch his name in the annals of IPL history as the first bowler to achieve this milestone for GT.

Currently standing as the second-highest wicket-taker for GT, Rashid Khan’s prowess with the ball has been instrumental in the team’s success. However, he trails behind star Indian pacer Mohammed Shami, who holds the record for the most wickets for GT with 48 dismissals in 33 matches. Unfortunately, Shami will be sidelined from this year’s tournament due to injury, depriving him of the opportunity to add to his tally and defend his Purple Cap title from the previous edition.

As Rashid Khan gears up to lead GT’s bowling attack against MI, another captivating subplot unfolds with the presence of Hardik Pandya. The seasoned Indian all-rounder, who previously spearheaded GT to IPL glory in 2022, now finds himself in the opposing camp as he dons the Mumbai Indians jersey for IPL 2024. Following a trade deal, Hardik’s move to MI last year led to Shubman Gill’s appointment as GT’s new captain.

Speaking of Gill, the 24-year-old batting sensation is poised to make his captaincy debut for GT in Sunday’s encounter. Fresh off a stellar performance in IPL 2023 where he clinched the Orange Cap with 890 runs, Gill aims to lead GT to victory and kickstart their IPL 2024 campaign on a winning note.

With Rashid Khan eyeing a historic milestone, Hardik Pandya facing his former team, and Shubman Gill embracing his new role as captain, the GT vs MI clash promises to be a riveting spectacle filled with excitement and anticipation. Cricket enthusiasts worldwide eagerly await the unfolding drama as these cricketing titans vie for supremacy on the grand stage of the IPL.