KKR's Gurbaz Returns from Afghanistan to Aid Team in IPL Playoffs

KKR's Gurbaz Returns from Afghanistan to Aid Team in IPL Playoffs

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) wicketkeeper-batter Rahmanullah Gurbaz has revealed that his mother is still recovering in the hospital, but he returned from Afghanistan to support his team in the Indian Premier League (IPL) playoffs.

Gurbaz played a crucial knock of 23 runs from 14 balls in KKR's Qualifier 1 victory over Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Tuesday. Speaking at the post-match press conference, he expressed his gratitude for the support of his family and the KKR franchise.

"My mother is still recovering in the hospital, but I knew my KKR family needed me here once Phil Salt left. So I came back from Afghanistan, and I'm happy to be here. My mother is happy for me too," Gurbaz said.

The 22-year-old had not featured in any games for KKR this season due to the success of Salt and Sunil Narine at the top of the order. However, with Salt departing, Gurbaz was called upon to fill the void.

In the match against SRH, Gurbaz provided a solid start alongside Narine, scoring two fours and two sixes before being dismissed. His innings helped set the platform for a dominant run-chase by KKR, who reached the target with 38 balls to spare.

Skipper Shreyas Iyer (58*) and Venkatesh Iyer (51*) played blistering half-centuries to guide KKR to victory. Mitchell Starc was the pick of the bowlers for KKR, taking 3/34 in four overs.

With this win, KKR has secured a direct spot in the final, while SRH will face the winner of the eliminator match between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) in Qualifier 2.

Tags: #KKR, #IPL, #RahmanullahGurbaz, #SunrisersHyderabad, #Playoffs