Cricket

Afghanistan's relentless pursuit of victory culminated in a thrilling five-wicket triumph over Bangladesh in the third and decisive ODI in Sharjah, securing a 2-1 series win. Opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz's scintillating century and Azmatullah Omarzai's all-around brilliance proved pivotal in the Afghans' triumph.Gurbaz, known for his explosive batting, unleashed a masterful 120-ball 101, adorned with seven towering sixes and five boundaries. His innings laid the foundation for Afghanistan's successful chase of 245. Omarzai, who had earlier impressed with a four-wicket haul, complemented Gurbaz's heroics with a solid 77-ball 70.Bangladesh, batting first, had posted a competitive 244 for 8, thanks to Mohammad Mahmudullah's valiant 98 and Mehidy Hasan Miraz's steady 66. However, Afghanistan's bowlers, led by Omarzai, kept the Bangladeshi batsmen in check, restricting them to a manageable total.The Afghan chase got off to a shaky start, with Bangladesh pacers Mustafizur Rahman and Nahid Rana reducing them to 84 for 3. But Gurbaz and Omarzai steadied the ship with a crucial 100-run partnership for the fourth wicket.Gurbaz's dismissal in the 39th over left Afghanistan needing 61 runs to win. Omarzai, however, continued his onslaught, forging a vital 58-run partnership with Mohammad Nabi (34 off 27 balls). Omarzai sealed the victory in style, hitting the winning six.Afghanistan's skipper, Hashmatullah Shahidi, expressed his delight at the team's performance, particularly the contributions of Gurbaz and Omarzai. Miraz, on the other hand, acknowledged Afghanistan's dominance in the series.

Afghanistan's Rahmanullah Gurbaz has etched his name in the annals of cricket history by becoming the second-youngest player to score eight centuries in men's One-Day Internationals (ODIs). The 22-year-old opener achieved this remarkable feat during Afghanistan's five-wicket victory over Bangladesh in the third ODI in Sharjah.Gurbaz's masterful 120-ball 101 propelled Afghanistan to a series triumph over Bangladesh. His innings was a testament to his exceptional talent and maturity beyond his years. The left-handed batsman displayed a wide array of strokes, including powerful drives, delicate flicks, and audacious scoops.Gurbaz's century is even more impressive considering the company he now keeps. Legendary Indian batsman Sachin Tendulkar was 22 years and 357 days old when he reached his eighth ODI century, while superstar Virat Kohli achieved the feat at 23 years and 27 days. Pakistan's Babar Azam was 23 years 280 days when he got to his eighth ODI century.However, it is South Africa's Quinton de Kock who holds the record for being the youngest player to score eight ODI centuries. De Kock was just 22 years 312 days old when he reached this milestone.Gurbaz's century was also his third against Bangladesh and third in Sharjah in the ODI format. He now has the most centuries for Afghanistan in ODIs, surpassing Mohammad Shahzad's tally of six.The victory over Bangladesh was a significant achievement for Afghanistan, who have been making steady progress in international cricket. The team's success is a testament to the hard work and dedication of its players and coaching staff.

Afghanistan's Rahmanullah Gurbaz has etched his name alongside Indian batting legend Virat Kohli in an exclusive club. The 22-year-old Afghan opener has become the second player to score seven ODI centuries before turning 23, matching Kohli's feat.Gurbaz's latest century came in the second ODI against South Africa, where he smashed a magnificent 103 off 100 deliveries. This was his seventh ODI ton, putting him on par with Kohli, who also had seven centuries before turning 23.South Africa's Quinton de Kock holds the record for the most ODI centuries before the age of 23, with eight tons to his name. Gurbaz, who turns 23 on November 28, still has time to match or even surpass de Kock's record.In his 42 ODI appearances, Gurbaz has amassed 1,572 runs at an impressive average of 38.34. His seven centuries and five half-centuries highlight his consistency and ability to score big runs. His highest score of 151 remains a testament to his explosive batting style.Gurbaz's century played a pivotal role in Afghanistan's emphatic 177-run victory over South Africa in the second ODI. The Afghan team registered a famous series win, taking an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.After Gurbaz's century laid the foundation, all-rounder Azmatullah Omarzai unleashed a blistering 86 off just 50 balls, propelling Afghanistan to a formidable total of 311.In response, South Africa's batting woes continued as they were bundled out for a paltry 134. Rashid Khan was the star performer with the ball, claiming 5/19, while newcomer Nangeyaliya Kharote chipped in with four wickets.Gurbaz will have one more opportunity to match de Kock's record in the final ODI of the series. The Afghan opener will be eager to continue his impressive form and cement his place among the elite batsmen in world cricket.

Pretoria Capitals, the South African franchise in the SA20 league, have bolstered their squad for the 2025 season by signing Afghanistan's explosive wicketkeeper-batter Rahmanullah Gurbaz. The 22-year-old will reunite with Jonathan Trott, who was recently appointed as Capitals' head coach after guiding Afghanistan to their maiden World Cup semi-final earlier this year.Gurbaz, a T20 globetrotter, brings a wealth of experience to the Capitals. He has played for various franchises around the world, including the Dubai Capitals in the ILT20, where he scored 146 runs in eight innings. He also has IPL experience, having won the title with Kolkata Knight Riders in 2023.Gurbaz's T20I form is equally impressive. He was the leading run-scorer in the 2024 T20 World Cup, amassing 281 runs in eight innings at an average of 35.12 and a strike rate of 124.33. His aggressive batting style and ability to clear the boundary with ease make him a valuable asset to any team.Gurbaz will join a star-studded Capitals squad that includes Wayne Parnell, Will Jacks, Rilee Rossouw, Jimmy Neesham, Anrich Nortje, and Ollie Pope. With such a formidable lineup, the Capitals will be among the favorites to lift the SA20 trophy in 2025.

Afghanistan's stunning 21-run victory over Australia in the Super Eight stage of the Twenty20 World Cup has reignited their hopes of reaching the semi-finals. The win was orchestrated by a brilliant opening partnership between Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran, who shared a 118-run stand to set the platform for a competitive total of 148-6.Gurbaz and Zadran dominated the Australian bowlers in the early overs, showcasing crisp batting and aggressive running. Their partnership put pressure on the Australians, who made uncharacteristic fielding errors under the lights at the Arnos Vale Ground. Gurbaz reached his half-century before being dismissed for 60, while Zadran contributed 51.Australia's chase got off to a disastrous start as Naveen-ul-Haq dismissed Travis Head for a duck in the opening over. Mitchell Marsh and David Warner also fell cheaply, leaving the Australians struggling at 32-3. The explosive Glenn Maxwell provided some hope with a battling 59 off 41 balls, but his dismissal by Gulbadin Naib sealed the fate of the former champions.Naib emerged as the pick of the Afghan bowlers, claiming 4-20, while Naveen-ul-Haq bagged 3-20. Pat Cummins, who had taken two hat-tricks in the tournament, became the first bowler to take two hat-tricks in a single T20 World Cup. However, his efforts were not enough to prevent Australia's defeat.The win keeps Afghanistan alive in the tournament, with India and Australia still in contention for the semi-finals. India currently tops Group 1 with four points, followed by Australia and Afghanistan with two points each. Bangladesh remains in last place with no points.India and Australia will face off in St. Lucia on Monday, while Afghanistan will play Bangladesh in the final Super Eight match later that day.

Afghanistan's remarkable journey in the T20 World Cup has been a testament to their growing prowess in the shortest format of the game. After a stunning victory over New Zealand, the Afghans find themselves atop both the leading run-scorers' and wicket-takers' charts, a testament to their all-round strength.Fazalhaq Farooqi, a 23-year-old left-arm quick, has emerged as a key figure for Afghanistan. With 12 wickets in four matches, he has been the tournament's most prolific wicket-taker, showcasing his ability to swing the ball and generate pace. His performance against New Zealand, where he claimed three early wickets, was instrumental in Afghanistan's 84-run victory.Afghanistan's batting has also been impressive, with Rahmanullah Gurbaz leading the way. The fearless opener has amassed 167 runs, including a blistering 80 against New Zealand. His aggressive approach and ability to clear the boundary with ease have made him a dangerous force at the top of the order.The emergence of Gurbaz and Farooqi has complemented Afghanistan's traditional strength in spin bowling. Rashid Khan, the talismanic captain, and Mohammad Nabi have been their usual reliable selves, while Noor Ahmed has shown promise as a rising star.Afghanistan's success is not merely a matter of individual brilliance. Under the guidance of former England batter Jonathan Trott, the team has developed a collective mindset and a belief in their own abilities. They have shed their underdog status and are now seen as a genuine threat to the established cricketing nations.The Afghans' performance in the Super Eight stage will be a true test of their mettle. They face formidable opponents in India, Australia, and Bangladesh, but they will be confident of making a strong push for a semifinal berth.

Afghanistan vs Papua New Guinea: A Clash of Contrasts in TaroubaAfghanistan, riding high on their impressive start to the T20 World Cup 2024, face a stern test against Papua New Guinea (PNG) at the Brian Lara Stadium in Tarouba. The Afghans have been in scintillating form, boasting a formidable opening partnership and a potent bowling attack.PNG, on the other hand, are yet to register a win in the tournament but have shown glimpses of their potential. Their medium-pacers and spinners will be eager to make an impact on the sluggish Tarouba pitch.Afghanistan's Strengths and WeaknessesAfghanistan's success has been largely attributed to their openers, Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran. The duo has forged a formidable partnership, amassing over 250 runs in the tournament so far. However, the middle order has not had enough opportunities to prove their worth.The bowling attack, led by Rashid Khan, is another key strength for Afghanistan. Khan's exceptional economy rate and wicket-taking ability make him a formidable threat. However, the team's reliance on spin could be a concern on a pitch that is expected to favor slower bowlers.PNG's Hopes and ChallengesPNG will be desperate to break their winless streak and boost their chances of reaching the Super Eight. Their bowling attack, led by Norman Vanua, has shown promise, but they will need to be more consistent.The team's batting has been inconsistent, with only Sese Bau and Tony Ura showing some form. They will need to find a way to put up a competitive total against Afghanistan's formidable bowling attack.Pitch and ConditionsThe Tarouba pitch is expected to be sluggish and favor spin bowling. The forecast for rain could make the pitch drier and aid more spin. The captain winning the toss is likely to bowl first to take advantage of the dew factor.ConclusionThe clash between Afghanistan and PNG promises to be an intriguing contest. Afghanistan will be the favorites, but PNG will be determined to prove their worth and upset the odds. The match could have a significant impact on both teams' hopes of reaching the Super Eight.

Guyana Amazon Warriors Bolster Squad with Gurbaz, Retain Core for CPL 2024The Guyana Amazon Warriors have made significant moves in preparation for the upcoming Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2024 season, signing Afghanistan opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz and retaining key players from their championship-winning squad.Gurbaz, who previously played for the Warriors in 2022, returns to the franchise after a successful stint with the Islamabad United in the Pakistan Super League (PSL). In six matches for the Warriors last season, he amassed 157 runs, including two half-centuries.The Warriors have also retained several overseas players who played pivotal roles in their maiden CPL title triumph last year. Pakistan batters Saim Ayub and Azam Khan, along with South African all-rounder Dwaine Pretorius, will continue to represent the franchise.Among the West Indies players retained are star batsman Shimron Hetmyer, wicketkeeper-batsman Shai Hope, all-rounder Romario Shepherd, and fast bowler Keemo Paul. These players have been instrumental in the Warriors' success over the years.In total, the Warriors have signed 14 players so far, leaving them with three more spots to fill at the draft in July. The franchise will be eager to add depth to their squad and find the right balance to defend their title.The Warriors' title defense will begin on August 30 against the new Antigua and Barbuda Falcons franchise in North Sound. The 2024 CPL season will run from August 29 to October 6, with matches taking place in Antigua, Barbados, Guyana, St Kitts & Nevis, Saint Lucia, and Trinidad & Tobago. The final will be held at the National Stadium in Providence, Guyana.With a strong core of players and the addition of Gurbaz, the Guyana Amazon Warriors are well-positioned to make a strong run in CPL 2024 and defend their championship.

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