Dharmshala, June 14: Afghanistan’s opening batsman Rahmanullah Gurabaz delivered a stunning performance on Saturday, scoring 102 runs off just 51 balls against India. He credited his remarkable innings to a conversation with India’s head coach, Gautam Gambhir, following a Test match in New Chandigarh. Gurabaz mentioned that their discussion helped him improve his shot selection.
In his innings, Gurabaz hit eight sixes and as many fours, achieving his ninth ODI century in a mere 48 balls, marking the fastest century by an Afghan batsman in ODIs.
After his century, Gurabaz told broadcasters, “After the Test match against India, I had a great conversation with Gautam Gambhir. That discussion truly helped me. I worked on those suggestions in the nets, and I am very grateful for that guidance. After the Test match, I told him I wanted to enhance my shot selection. He provided some excellent advice, which I was able to implement today. I just tried to play positively, and it worked for me.”
Discussing his strategy, Gurabaz stated, “I am grateful for this performance. I believe the strategy was very simple: just play positive cricket. We knew it was a 25-over game, but I also understand my game. I just trusted myself and played for the team. It felt good to contribute.”
Despite Gurabaz’s outstanding innings, India’s debutants Gurnoor Barar and Harsh Dubey each took three wickets, while Arshdeep Singh claimed two. Afghanistan was all out for 194 runs in 24.5 overs, and India chased down the target in just 22.5 overs, winning by seven wickets.
Reflecting on his remarkable innings, Gurabaz expressed, “It always feels good to do something for my country and make everyone proud. I trust my training and preparation. I work hard, and this innings is a result of that effort. Scoring a century against India in India is special, but as I said, it is the fruit of my hard work.”
Gurabaz acknowledged the challenges of batting, stating, “To be honest, the wicket wasn’t easy, especially against spin. The spinners were getting some assistance, and the ball was turning. My focus was on trusting myself and staying positive. There is definitely something for the spinners on the pitch, and if they bowl well, they can make an impact.”
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