Kolkata Knight Riders‘ young Afghan batsman Rahmanullah Gurbaz enters his second IPL season with a clear focus on refining his technique. While acknowledging the presence of experienced teammate Gautam Gambhir as a valuable resource, the 22-year-old prioritises mastering basic cricketing shots over unorthodox strokes.
Gurbaz Eyes Strong IPL Showing for T20 World Cup Preparation
Fresh off a successful ODI World Cup campaign in 2023, where he amassed 280 runs at a near-century strike rate, Gurbaz sees the IPL as a vital platform to prepare for the upcoming T20 World Cup in June. He prioritizes building a strong foundation through proper technique, believing that conventional shots are more reliable for an opener compared to attempting risky, innovative strokes.
“At present, I think I am well prepared and I know how to adjust to different conditions,” Gurbaz said according to The Telegraph online. “Sometimes in cricket, you do come across stages when you aren’t able to score in some situations. But we have our experienced coaches in KKR who we can go to,” he added.
Learning from Experience: Gambhir’s Guidance a Backup Plan
Gurbaz acknowledges the wealth of knowledge possessed by teammate Gautam Gambhir, a seasoned IPL campaigner. He recognizes Gambhir as a valuable source of advice and guidance but emphasizes his focus on self-improvement through solid technique.
“Gambhir sir is one of the most experienced people around,” Gurbaz said. “So, whenever I need anything, I can go to him and seek his advice,” he further stated.
Gurbaz Prioritizes Text-Book Cricket Over Innovation as an Opener
While acknowledging the importance of having a repertoire of shots, Gurbaz prioritizes mastering traditional cricketing shots as an opener. He believes that a strong foundation in fundamental technique will be his key to success, allowing him to attempt more audacious strokes only when the situation demands.
“Yes, you have to have certain options, but as an opener, I must be able to play good cricketing shots,” Gurbaz remarked. “And then in the end, I can try those [cheeky shots] if the team requires,” he concluded.
Gurbaz: From Humble Beginnings to Helping Others
Despite his on-field success, Gurbaz remains grounded, remembering his own struggles before entering professional cricket. He acknowledges the importance of giving back, particularly to those less fortunate. Recalling his early days when he couldn’t afford basic equipment, Gurbaz uses his platform to help those in need.
“We all are humans, so we should help each other,” Gurbaz stated. “In our country, there’s so much poverty, and I too was poor. I didn’t have even 10 rupees with me at one point in time… Didn’t have enough money for my bat and gloves,” he concluded.
Gurbaz will kick off his IPL 2024 campaign alongside the Kolkata Knight Riders on March 23rd against the Sunrisers Hyderabad. The two-time champions will be hoping to end their decade-long wait for another IPL title, with Gurbaz’s focus on technique and his eagerness to learn from experienced teammates playing a crucial role in their quest for glory.
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