‘I haven’t left bowling’: GT all-rounder Rahul Tewatia clarifies

Rahul Tewatia, the swashbuckling all-rounder for the Gujarat Titans, has addressed recent speculation regarding his bowling role in the ongoing IPL 2024 season. Following their thrilling last-ball victory against the Rajasthan Royals, Tewatia spoke at the post-match press conference, dispelling concerns that he might have abandoned bowling altogether.

Thrilling last-ball win for Gujarat Titans

The Gujarat Titans secured a dramatic win against the Rajasthan Royals thanks to a combined effort. Openers Shubman Gill provided a solid foundation with his 72 runs, while the lower order duo of Rashid Khan (24* off 11) and Rahul Tewatia himself (22* off 11) delivered a spectacular late flourish to seal the victory on the last ball.

Focus on Batting Depth

Rahul Tewatia explained the team’s strategy during the tense run chase. With 40 runs required in the final three overs, he highlighted the importance of maintaining belief and taking calculated risks.

He also praised Shubman Gill’s crucial knock for providing a strong foundation and acknowledged the team’s deep batting lineup, which includes Rashid Khan batting at number 8. The plan, he revealed, was to extend the match as far as possible.

“In the last three overs we needed 40 runs and I was batting with Shahrukh Khan and Rashid Khan was still to come. We were just telling each other that two or three hits can change the game. We are in it. Furthermore, we just have to believe in ourselves. And play according to the situation.”

“Shubman Gill provided us continuous momentum. He provided support till last and we have deep batting. Rashid Khan plays at No.8. The plan was to take game as deep as possible.”

Rahul Tewatia preparation for pressure situations

Rahul Tewatia spoke about his approach to handling pressure situations. He lauded the team management for giving him the freedom to play his natural game and revealed that he practices specifically for such high-pressure scenarios to ensure he’s prepared when the moment arrives.

“The team knows how I back my strengths and they have given me full freedom to execute those plans. Even I practice I stimulate same match situations on how will I bat if the same situation occur in the match.”

Winning and Learning ft Rahul Tewatia

Tewatia emphasized that the team wasn’t burdened by the pressure to win, especially considering the long tournament format. He acknowledged their previous losses but stressed that setbacks are a part of the game and don’t define a team’s performance. He revealed that the team’s primary focus in this match was to avoid repeating mistakes made in previous IPL matches. Maintaining belief in their abilities was paramount, and there was no undue pressure from the management.

“There was no pressure on us to win, its a long tournament. We have lost two matches, and losing two matches dont make a team a champion or knocks them out of the IPL. It’s a very long tournament. And in this match our motive was to avoid mistakes that we have been committing in past IPL matches. We kept believing in our abilities. There was no pressure from management side.”

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Bowling Role Not Extinct for Rahul Tewatia

Finally, Rahul Tewatia addressed the question on everyone’s mind: his bowling. He assured everyone that he hasn’t given up bowling entirely. He acknowledged the presence of Rashid Khan and Noor Ahmad, two exceptional spinners in the team, making it difficult to find playing time for a third spinner.

He expressed his admiration for their skills in the middle overs and admitted to waiting for his bowling opportunity. However, he made it clear that bowling remains very much a part of his cricketing arsenal.

“No I haven’t left bowling. It;s just we have Rashid Khan and Noor Ahmad. And if these two spinners are in a team, I dont think there is need of third spinner in a team. They both are just too good in the middle overs. I am also waiting for my bowling but I definitely dont have left bowling.”

Tewatia’s clarification assures fans that his all-round abilities remain valuable to the Gujarat Titans. While his batting heroics stole the show in the last match, his bowling skills might be utilized when the strategic situation demands it.