Excelsior Sports Correspondent
JAMMU, May 17: In a format dominated by raw pace and fearless strokeplay, Jammu and Kashmir’s Rasikh Dar has carved a niche through craft, control and clever variations. The 23-year-old seam bowler has emerged this IPL season as a specialist in deception, with his slower deliveries and toe-crushing yorkers making him a dependable option both in the powerplay and at the death.
From his very first outing this season, Rasikh’s intent has been clear-control the contest through precision rather than sheer speed. “I work on hitting the blockhole and disguising my slower ball. If you land it in the right area, batters have to do the scoring,” he said after a recent net session.
In nine IPL appearances, Rasikh has taken 12 wickets, including a standout 4 for 24 against LSG and a crucial 3 for 36 against PBKS in a tightly contested game. An economy rate of 9.48 reflects both his wicket-taking impact and occasional challenges under pressure.
His success lies in consistency of execution-tight lines outside off in the powerplay and full, angled deliveries at the blockhole in the death overs. His slower ball, delivered with the same action as his stock ball, has deceived set batters, while his yorkers have repeatedly targeted the base of the stumps.
Coaches credit his ability to adapt quickly to conditions and maintain repeatable action under pressure, making him a valuable T20 asset. However, improving control against power-hitters and adding variations like a slower bouncer could further enhance his effectiveness.
For his franchise, Rasikh has become a key tactical weapon, trusted to deliver in high-pressure overs. His rise continues to underline the growing impact of skill-based bowling in modern T20 cricket, where precision often outweighs pace.
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