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'I Always Talk To...’: Rahmanullah Gurbaz Names Two Indian Cricketers That Inspire Him

image-lrn5cyf2Rahmanullah Gurbaz starred in Capitals' first win in ILT20 2024. (X.com)

Afghanistan's young opener, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, has disclosed that he often seeks advice from legendary Indian cricketers MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli to enhance his cricketing skills.

During the recently concluded three-match T20I series against Afghanistan, Gurbaz showcased his prowess by accumulating 87 runs across three innings. Despite facing setbacks in the first two matches, he made a resounding comeback in the final T20I, scoring a brisk half-century in 32 balls. In collaboration with Ibrahim Zadran, he forged a pivotal 93-run partnership, providing Afghanistan with a fighting chance against India, although they eventually succumbed to defeat. Currently participating in ILT20 2024, Gurbaz represents Dubai Capitals.

In an interview with news agency ANI, Gurbaz revealed his ongoing dialogue with the inspirational Indian duo, discussing ways to elevate his cricketing journey to the next level. He specifically mentioned conversations with Virat Kohli about his cricketing journey and the path to growth.

"I always talked to Virat and MS Dhoni about how to improve my cricket. I have a lot of things in my mind and I have to work on it. I was talking to Virat (bhai) about my cricket journey and how should I grow, and reach the next level,"  Gurbaz told ANI in an interview.

Reflecting on the thrilling third T20I against India, which featured the first-ever double Super Over in international cricket, Gurbaz acknowledged the learning experience for Afghanistan. Despite their commendable performance, especially in matching India's total of 212 runs, they fell short in the second Super Over. Gurbaz expressed the team's enjoyment of the game and emphasized the confidence gained by playing against stalwarts like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. He concluded by saying that Afghanistan should play more series against India in the future.

"It was a good learning for us. This kind of game can happen. We also enjoyed the game and learned a lot from it. Playing against players like Virat and Rohit Sharma gave us a lot of confidence and learning. I hope we get a lot of series against India in future," Gurbaz added.

Currently participating in ILT20 2024 with Dubai Capitals, Gurbaz played a crucial role in the team's victory in the second match against MI Emirates. After an early dismissal of captain David Warner, Gurbaz partnered with Jake Fraser-McGurk to establish a formidable 114-run stand for the second wicket. Gurbaz's outstanding innings of 81 runs off 39 balls, featuring eight fours and four sixes, contributed significantly to Dubai Capitals securing a convincing seven-wicket win at Dubai International Cricket Stadium.