Afghanistan's cricket team has been making waves in the international cricket scene, and one player who has been instrumental in their success is Rahmanullah Gurbaz. The young cricketer has been making headlines with his impressive performances, and his story is an inspiration to many. Born in Khost province, Gurbaz grew up in a family that did not support his passion for cricket. His father, a school principal, wanted him to become a doctor or an engineer, but Gurbaz was determined to pursue his dream of playing cricket.
Despite the obstacles he faced, Gurbaz worked secretly to buy his own cricket bat and gloves. He even worked under a contractor to earn money, all while keeping it a secret from his family. His hard work and dedication eventually paid off, and he was selected for Afghanistan's U-19 team at the age of 15. However, he still didn't have his own bat and had to ask other players to lend him one. Gurbaz's talent and perseverance eventually earned him a spot in the national team, and he made his debut in the Shpageza Cricket League for Mis Ainak Knights at the age of 16.
Gurbaz's international career has been nothing short of impressive. He made history by scoring a century on his ODI debut in 2021 and has since become a key player for Afghanistan. He has played in various leagues, including the BPL, Lanka Premier League, and IPL, and has consistently performed well. In the 2023 IPL, he scored 227 runs in 11 matches for Kolkata Knight Riders, and his hard work paid off in the T20 World Cup, where he became the highest run-scorer of the tournament. Gurbaz's aggressive batting style and power-hitting ability have made him a fan favorite, and he is known for his ability to put pressure on the opposition's bowling attack.
Afghanistan's batting coach, Andrew Puttick, has praised Gurbaz's talent and athleticism, saying that he is a "really talented guy and a super athlete." Puttick has also highlighted Gurbaz's technical adjustments, which have helped him to improve his game and become a more consistent player. Gurbaz's success has not only brought joy to his family but also to the people of Afghanistan, who see him as a role model and a source of inspiration. He believes that cricket is the only source of joy for the Afghan people and works hard to make them proud.
Some of Gurbaz's notable achievements include:
- Scoring a century on his ODI debut in 2021
- Becoming the highest run-scorer in the 2023 T20 World Cup
- Scoring 227 runs in 11 matches for Kolkata Knight Riders in the 2023 IPL
- Helping Afghanistan reach the semifinals of the 2023 T20 World Cup
Gurbaz's next goal is to help Afghanistan win a major trophy, and with his talent and dedication, it's not hard to see him achieving his dream. He is an inspiration to many young cricketers around the world, and his story is a testament to the power of hard work and perseverance.