Following his sensational performance, Afghanistan star opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz credited India's head coach Gautam Gambhir for providing key technical inputs that helped pave the way for his explosive 51-ball 102 against the hosts in the series opener. Gurbaz’s brilliant display of power-hitting illuminated the HPCA Stadium as he dismantled the bowling attack to bring up his ninth ODI century.
Discussion with Gambhir really helped me: Rahmanullah Gurbaz
While the dynamic opener lit up the venue by hammering eight massive sixes and eight boundaries, the rest of the batting lineup unfortunately failed to offer any resistance. The Indian bowlers capitalized on this lack of support, routinely picking up wickets at the other end to eventually bowl Afghanistan out for a modest 194.
Reflecting on his knock, Gurbaz revealed that a recent tactical discussion with Gambhir proved to be immensely fruitful. The insightful conversation took place just after Afghanistan's heavy defeat by an innings and 300 runs in the one-off Test match at Mullanpur, allowing the opener to lean on the familiar relationship they built while sharing Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) dressing room in the IPL.
“After the Test match, I had a very good conversation with Gautam Gambhir sir (and) that discussion really helped me. I worked on those ideas in the nets, and I'm very grateful for the guidance. When the Test match ended, I told him that I wanted to improve my shot selection,” Gurbaz told the broadcaster.
“He shared some positive ideas and I was able to apply them today. I just tried to play positively and it worked for me,” he added.
'I just backed myself and played for the team'
Despite Gurbaz’s sensational 102-run blitz, Afghanistan's batting lineup collapsed under pressure and was shot out for a modest 194 in just 24.5 overs. The damage was primarily done by India's debutant bowling duo, Gurnoor Brar and Harsh Dubey. The two newcomers made an immediate impact on the international stage, tearing through the opposition by claiming three wickets apiece to split six scalps between them. Reflecting on his lone warrior act amid the batting collapse, Gurbaz emphasized his deep pride in representing his nation. The explosive opener stated that he is always intensely motivated to perform well and put his best foot forward whenever he wears the country's colors.
“The approach was very simple and easy, just to play positive cricket. We knew it was a 25-over game, but I know my game as well. I just backed myself and played for the team. It was nice to contribute. It's always nice to do something for your country and make everyone proud. I trust my training and preparation. I work hard, and this innings is the result of that hard work.
“Scoring a hundred against India in India is special, but as I mentioned, it's the reward for the effort I've put in. The wicket isn't easy, especially against spin. There was some turn and assistance for the spinners. But my focus was on backing myself and staying positive. There is definitely something in the pitch for the spinners, and if they bowl well, they can make an impact,” Gurbaz concluded.