Rahmanullah Gurbaz Biography: Best Afghanistan Wicket-Keeper and Right-Hand Batsman Profile
In the thrilling, fast-paced world of modern cricket, where every ball can change the game, a new breed of cricketers is emerging, defined by their fearless approach and explosive power. Among them, Afghanistan’s Rahmanullah Gurbaz stands out. He is not just a wicket-keeper; he’s a dynamic top-order batsman who has taken international cricket by storm. His journey is a powerful story of raw talent, a relentless drive to succeed, and a burning desire to make his mark on the global stage. From the dusty grounds of Kabul to the grand stadiums of the Indian Premier League, Gurbaz has become a symbol of a new era for Afghan cricket.
Born on November 28, 2001, in Kabul, Afghanistan, Gurbaz’s early life was deeply connected to the sport. While his family encouraged him to pursue a career in medicine, his passion for cricket was undeniable. He found solace in the game, often playing with improvised equipment. His talent was recognized by his friends, who informally supported his dream, even providing him with equipment and transportation to matches. This early support was crucial, especially when his cricketing pursuits faced initial family resistance. It wasn’t until a former cricketer and coach, Mohammad Khan Zadran, noticed his potential during a match that he was invited to join an academy and received formal guidance, setting him on the path to professional cricket.
A Rapid Rise: From Domestic Prodigy to International Star
Rahmanullah Gurbaz’s ascent through the cricketing ranks was swift and impressive. He didn’t spend a long time toiling in domestic cricket; his natural ability and aggressive style of play made him a standout from the beginning. He made his List A debut for Afghanistan A in 2017 and his Twenty20 debut in the same year. His performances in youth tournaments, particularly his role in the 2018 ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup, solidified his reputation as a player to watch.
His international debut came at a young age, a testament to the national selectors’ confidence in his abilities. He made his T20I debut for Afghanistan against Zimbabwe in September 2019. However, it was his One Day International (ODI) debut against Ireland in January 2021 that truly announced his arrival on the world stage. In a spectacular performance, Gurbaz scored a blistering 127 runs, becoming the first Afghan batsman to score a century on his ODI debut. This record-breaking innings was a clear statement of intent and a sign of the many more explosive performances to come.
The Power-Hitter: Redefining the Opening Slot
Rahmanullah Gurbaz is known for his aggressive and fearless batting style. As an opening batsman, his primary role is to get the team off to a flying start, especially in the powerplay. He’s a player who doesn’t shy away from taking on the bowlers from the very first ball, and his ability to clear the ropes with ease has made him a fan favorite.
His batting is not just about power; he is also a technically sound batsman with a wide range of shots. While he loves to hit boundaries, he can also rotate the strike and build an innings. His partnerships at the top of the order, particularly with his long-time opening partner Ibrahim Zadran, have been instrumental in Afghanistan’s success in limited-overs cricket. Together, they have formed a formidable combination, providing a solid foundation for the middle order to capitalize on.
His performance in the 2024 T20 World Cup was a prime example of his impact. He was the tournament’s highest run-scorer, amassing 281 runs in 8 matches. This incredible feat, which included scores of 80 and 76, highlighted his consistency and his ability to perform under pressure on the biggest stage.
The Global T20 Phenomenon: A Fixture in Franchise Leagues
Gurbaz’s dynamic batting and wicket-keeping skills have made him a highly sought-after player in T20 leagues around the world. He has become a regular fixture in almost every major franchise tournament, showcasing his adaptability and skill in diverse conditions.
His journey in the Indian Premier League (IPL) began in 2022 when he was a replacement for the Gujarat Titans. While he didn’t get to play that season, he was later traded to the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for the 2023 season. He made a significant impact with his performances for KKR, playing a crucial role in their success. His ability to open the batting and keep wickets made him a valuable asset to the team. His successful stint with KKR continued as he was picked up by the franchise again for the 2025 season.
In addition to the IPL, Gurbaz has played for several other teams, including the Multan Sultans in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), the Jaffna Kings in the Lanka Premier League (LPL), and the Barbados Tridents in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL). His presence in these leagues not only helps him gain valuable experience but also raises the profile of Afghan cricket globally.
Record-Breaking and Ground-Breaking Achievements
Rahmanullah Gurbaz’s career is dotted with impressive records and milestones that highlight his remarkable talent. His record of scoring a century on his ODI debut is just one of many. He has a habit of breaking records and setting new benchmarks for others to follow.
One of his most notable achievements is his knack for scoring centuries. He has scored eight centuries in ODIs, a remarkable feat for a player of his age. In November 2024, he equaled a world record held by cricketing legends Sachin Tendulkar and Quinton de Kock for the most centuries scored before turning 23 years old, with eight centuries. He also became the third-fastest batsman to reach eight ODI centuries, a testament to his consistent run-scoring ability.
His prolific run-scoring in the 2024 T20 World Cup, where he topped the charts, also adds to his growing list of accolades. These records are not just personal achievements; they are a source of immense pride for the entire nation of Afghanistan.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Power and Promise
Rahmanullah Gurbaz’s story is a compelling narrative of a young cricketer who has risen from humble beginnings to become a global star. He is a player who embodies the fearless spirit of modern cricket, a batsman who can turn the tide of a match in a few overs, and a reliable wicket-keeper who adds an extra dimension to his team.
As he continues his journey, Gurbaz’s legacy will be defined not just by his impressive stats and records but by the inspiration he provides to a generation of young cricketers in Afghanistan and around the world. He is a symbol of hope and a testament to the fact that with talent, hard work, and an unwavering belief in oneself, anything is possible.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is Rahmanullah Gurbaz’s primary role in a cricket team?
Rahmanullah Gurbaz is a wicket-keeper batsman who primarily opens the batting. He is known for his aggressive and explosive style of play, providing a quick start for his team.
2. Which IPL team does Rahmanullah Gurbaz play for?
Rahmanullah Gurbaz plays for the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the Indian Premier League (IPL). He was first picked up by the Gujarat Titans in 2022 before being traded to KKR, where he has been a key player since 2023.
3. What is Rahmanullah Gurbaz’s most significant record?
One of his most significant records is being the first Afghan batsman to score a century on his One Day International (ODI) debut. He achieved this feat in 2021 against Ireland. He also equaled the world record for the most ODI centuries before turning 23.
4. How old was Rahmanullah Gurbaz when he made his international debut?
Rahmanullah Gurbaz made his T20I debut for Afghanistan in September 2019 at the age of 17. His ODI debut came in January 2021 when he was 19.
5. What were Rahmanullah Gurbaz’s achievements in the 2024 T20 World Cup?
In the 2024 T20 World Cup, Rahmanullah Gurbaz was the highest run-scorer of the tournament, with 281 runs. His consistent performances with the bat were crucial to Afghanistan’s journey in the tournament.
