Afghanistan all-rounder Rashid Khan admitted he made a “mistake” by returning to cricket only a few months after undergoing back surgery, which took place right after the 2023 World Cup. He revealed that the decision had lasting effects, particularly during his last two IPL seasons with Gujarat Titans (GT).
The 2025 edition turned out to be his poorest campaign, with Rashid conceding a record 33 sixes in a single season, as both experienced and uncapped batters dominated him. Following the surgery, Rashid’s trademark speed — a key element of his bowling — dropped noticeably, along with his accuracy.
However, a two-month break after the IPL proved crucial in restoring his rhythm. His renewed energy was on display on Tuesday in the opening match of The Hundred 2025, where he delivered a match-winning spell of 3 for 11 for defending champions Oval Invincibles against London Spirit at Lord’s.
Speaking to ESPNcricinfo in an event organised by Red Bull, which announced him as their ambassador on Saturday, Rashid admitted he had not fully understood or followed the medical advice given to him after his surgery.
“After the IPL, I realised I needed time for my body to recover properly from back surgery,” Rashid said. “Earlier, I rushed my return without full rehab, which hurt my performance. Taking two months off to focus on fitness and recovery helped me regain rhythm, and I felt great when I returned.”
Rashid Khan credits slower pace for improved control and IPL struggles
On the slow pitch at Lord’s, Rashid Khan bowled at speeds ranging from 94 to 98 kph, which he finds more comfortable and easier to control. He believes that the lack of pace in his bowling was a major factor in his struggles to dominate during the past two IPL seasons.
“On Tuesday, I bowled at my usual pace of 94-98 kph, which I’d been missing earlier because my body wasn’t fully ready. Last night, I felt good and was able to bowl at speeds that trouble batsmen and limit their time to react.”
Just months after his back surgery, despite medical warnings, Rashid quickly returned to playing mainly T20 cricket. He started with the Ireland series in March 2024, then played the IPL and led Afghanistan to the T20 World Cup semi-finals. After developing back and hamstring issues, he missed the BBL and PSL.
In January 2025, Rashid starred in the second Test against Zimbabwe, taking 11 wickets and earning Player of the Match. However, the heavy workload showed during the Champions Trophy and IPL 2025.
Get the latest cricket news here, like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter and Instagram for more such updates.