Afghanistan opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz delivered a great performance in the team’s important Super 8 match of the 2024 T20 World Cup against Australia on Sunday, June 23 at Arnos Vale Ground, Kingstown. Australia won the toss and decided to field first.
Rahmanullah Gurbaz and opening partner Ibrahim Zadran contributed to their team’s excellent start. The two put their club in a good position, combining for 118 runs.
Rahmanullah Gurbaz countered Australia’s powerful bowling unit admirably on a difficult pitch. He achieved a magnificent half-century, his third in the ongoing showcase event. During his time at the crease, the keeper-batter hit four sixes and as many boundaries, totaling 60 runs off 49 balls.
The Afghan keeper-batsman was widely praised on social media for his hitting prowess. Here are some of the leading reactions:
Several fans praised Gurbaz for stepping up under pressure once more and making a huge impact with the bat.
“GURBAZ YOU ARE THE MAN.” a fan wrote.
“Another fifty for Rahmanullah Gurbaz, He’s having a great tournament here!” wrote a fan.
“Mashallah Mashallah another Half century for Rahmanullah Gurbaz on a difficult pitch. What a player he is.” commented another.
Rahmanullah Gurbaz’s innings ended in the sixteenth over. He perished to Marcus Stoinis while attempting an assault shot. He failed to make the required connection and was caught by David Warner at deep square leg.
It is worth noting that Gurbaz is now the leading run-scorer in the 2024 T20 World Cup, with 238 runs from six matches at a strike rate of 141.66.
Afghanistan Miss Opportunity Despite Strong Start from Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran
Rahmunullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran scored a spectacular century, their third of the 2024 T20 World Cup. Afghanistan had reached 118/0 in the 16th over and appeared to be on track for a massive score.
However, they lost wickets at regular intervals, preventing them from finishing quickly. Afghanistan scored 148/6 in 20 overs. Gurbaz and Zadran were the top scorers, with 60 and 51, respectively.
Pat Cummins was Australia’s best bowler. The right-arm pacer claimed his second consecutive hat-trick. Adam Zampa also performed admirably, bringing up two wickets.