The Qualifier 2 between reigning champs Gujarat Titans and 5-time victors Mumbai Indians is set to start off at the Narendra Modi Arena in Ahmedabad on Friday. The Suryakumar Yadav vs. Rashid Khan duel is arguably the one that the majority of people have their sights set on, despite the fact that there are still a number of top-player battles in the match.

The two cricketers, solidly arranged as the best in their particular classifications, are two of the most thrilling T20 abilities on the planet. Nevertheless, only one of them can win this time.

Surya has significantly improved his form in the IPL 2023 season after a poor start by scoring over 500 runs, including a century. In contrast, Rashid has 25 scalps in 15 matches, making him the tournament’s second-highest wicket taker.

Previous India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar, in a talk on ESPNCricinfo, communicated his fervour at the Suryakumar versus Rashid fight as most would consider to be normal to happen in the Qualifier 2.

“There is one of the world’s best T20 bowlers on one side – Rashid Khan. On the other hand, there is Suryakumar Yadav, the world’s best T20 batter. I am not saying the contest will decide the match, but it will be the contest to look forward to. On very few occasions do you get to witness the world’s best T20 batter taking on the best T20 bowler,”

Manjrekar said.

In addition, Manjrekar provided insight into the MI vs. GT matchup in Ahmedabad, arguing that despite being the home field of Hardik Pandya’s team, the field will benefit both teams equally.

“This pitch will suit Mumbai Indians as well as Gujarat Titans. Titans will be happy that they are not playing in Chepauk and have returned to Ahmedabad. Their hard-hitters will be a lot more effective here. Their spinners do not need turning pitches. Noor Ahmad and Rashid Khan can trouble batters on good pitches as well.”

he added

“It’s quite interesting that Gujarat Titans were the best team in the league stage and Mumbai Indians were termed the weakest side in the qualifiers. But the manner in which Mumbai Indians have been winning games, the way they have batted and bowled, and the way Titans lost the last game, suddenly both teams seem to be on even terms for me – on the same level.

Though the two teams are quite evenly matched, Manjrekar feels the Titans have a slight edge because of their spin department.

It will be difficult to make a prediction. The winning momentum is with Mumbai, but there is a big difference in the spin departments of the teams. If that comes into play, then one would have to back Titans.”

he continued