"Playing in India is tough": Rabada on challenges of bowling in batting-friendly IPL pitches
Ahmedabad, May 13
Gujarat Titans ace seamer Kagiso Rabada admitted that bowling in India is tough on batting-friendly pitches, but stressed the importance of focusing on execution rather than worrying about runs conceded.
He expressed gratitude for his current success in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) for the Gujarat-based franchise.
Rabada has been in sensational form in the 2026 IPL, with 21 scalps in 12 innings at an outstanding average of 20.04.
With Rabada's effort, the Shubman Gill-led GT is currently sitting at the top of the IPL points table with 8 victories out of their 12 fixtures so far.
"Playing in India is tough. But I must say some of the wickets have been pretty fast-bowling-friendly this year and in other years in certain grounds. But generally it favours the batting. And you just almost have to just accept that sometimes you're going to go for runs, and you shouldn't worry about the outcome. It's more about what you're trying to do. I'm really grateful that things are going my way," Rabada told ANI in an interview.
Rabada heaps praises on young Indian speedster Ashok Sharma, who bowled the fastest ball of IPL 2026 so far, clocking 154.2 kph (95.8 mph), highlighting his pace, boundless energy, and evident hunger to succeed, describing these qualities as a strong foundation for what could become a highly promising cricket career.
Sharma achieved this speed during his side's clash against the Rajasthan Royals (RR). Sharma has grabbed 6 wickets in six innings so far this season at a decent average of 38.00.
"He's fast, he's full of energy, and he wants it. And that's a good recipe for potentially a good career," Rabada added.
Rabada also reflected on the constant pressure in cricket, saying it's an inevitable part of the game.
He emphasised that while pressure never goes away, players learn to cope with it over time through hard work and preparation.
"There's always pressure, and that's what comes part and parcel with the game. So the pressure never goes away. Pressure is pressure, and you're going to feel it, and you have to deal with it. But it never gets old, I must say. You just learn how to cope with it at different times. So you just hope for the best. You just work really hard and hope for the best," he concluded.
GT has two matches left before the playoffs, facing Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Saturday and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) next Thursday.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Finally someone spoke the truth! IPL pitches are just run fests. But Rabada is a class act - even on these roads he's taking wickets. GT bowling attack is looking lethal this season. He's my pick for Purple Cap this year!
"You just have to accept you're going to go for runs" - sage advice from a seasoned pro. Rabada's maturity is showing. And the way he praised young Ashok Sharma shows his character. This is what leadership looks like, not just on the field but off it too.
Love Rabada's humility and professionalism. He's right - bowling in India is always a challenge with these batting paradises. But his acceptance of the situation and focus on execution is what makes him world-class. Hope young Ashok Sharma learns from him!
Rabada's comments about Ashok Sharma give me hope for Indian fast bowling. We need more pacers with that fire in their belly. But I wish IPL curators would prepare more balanced pitches. These 200+ scores every match are getting boring now 😅
It's refreshing to see a bowler this honest about conditions without making excuses. Rabada is a true professional who takes responsibility for his performance. GT is lucky to have him leading their pace attack. Pressure? What pressure? This guy thrives on it!
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