The SA20 2025 action in South Africa started just as what fans had expected out of it. The initial two matches were absolute nail-biters. While MI Cape Town defeated Sunrisers Eastern Cape convincingly in the opening encounter, the second match turned out to be an intense rivalry between Durban Super Giants and Pretoria Capitals.

Rahmanullah Gurbaz steals the show after a turbulent start

Batting first after winning the toss in the second game of the tournament, Durban Super Giants had put a mammoth total of 209 runs in their 20 overs on their home soil. With a huge target and job to do, the Pretoria Capitals�opening pair of Will Jacks and Rahmanullah Gurbaz began the run-chase.

Initially, both openers had a shaky start to their respective innings. Jacks was the first to put his offensive gear on hammering boundaries and sixes on every opportunity. During the 5th over, it was Gurbaz who decided to take matters into his hands. Gurbaz seemed a bit uncomfortable against Super Giants bowling line-up before that over. However, this time he stunned the Durban crowd with two remarkable clean hits into the stands against Chris Woakes.

The first six was a clean hit on the on-side, it was the first delivery of Woakes�second over and Gurbaz astonished the English pacer with his remarkable footwork to smash a maximum in an emphatic manner. The six sailed in the air for 89? metres before reaching the stands. On the very next delivery, Gurbaz punished a full-length delivery by creating some space for himself and hitting the ball straight for another maximum. This time the ball travelled for 84 metres before reaching another part of the stands in Kingsmead.

Also Read: Rahmanu??llah Gurbaz’s heroics in vain as Durban Super Giants pip Pretoria Capitals in a thriller at SA20 ?2025

Here’s the video

The Afghan batting tornado is wreaking havo??c in Durban! 🌪�a href="//twitter.com/hashtag/?PretoriaCapitals?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw" data-wpel-link="exclude">#PretoriaCapitals opener #RahmanullahGurbaz is showing his might on his #SA20 debut! �/p>

Keep watching the action LIVE on Disney + Hotstar, Star Sports 2 & Sports18-2 #DSGvPC pic.twitter.com/7FqfpylQDn

— JioCinema (@JioCinema) January 10, 2025

A heroic knock from Gurbaz proved short in the end

The two maximums greatly lifted the spirits of the Afghan opening batter. Gurbaz and Jacks created a strong base for Capitals and had a partnership of 154 runs between them. Gurbaz contributed 89 runs for his team off 43 balls with 3 boundaries and 7 sixes. The floodgates of dismissals for capitals opened after Gurbaz was sent back to the pavilion by Noor Ahmed in the 13th over of the match. The entire Capitals middle order crashed like a pack of cards which ultimately paved the way for a Super Giants victory by ??a narrow margin of 2 runs.

Also Read: Delano Potgieter wreaks havoc as MI ??Cape Town crush Sunrisers Eastern ??Cape in SA20 2025 opener

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The SA20 2025 got off to an electrifying start as Durban Super Giants (DSG) clinched a narrow 2-run victory over the Pretoria Capitals in the second match of the tournament. The encounter at Kingsmead was a batting spe?ctacle, with b??oth teams showcasing immense firepower and determination.

Durban Super Giants set a mammoth target

Opting to bat first after winning the toss, DSG amassed an imposing total of 209/4 in their 20 overs. Bryce Parsons (47 off 28) and Matthew Breetzke (33 off 20) provided a blazing start, while Kane Williamson anchored the innings with a composed 60 off 40. The late fireworks were provided by Wiaan Mulder, who hammered 45 off just 19 balls, including 4 fours and 3 sixes, ??propelling DSG beyond the 200-run mark.

Senuran Muthusamy was the standout bowler for the Capitals, claiming 3 wickets for just 21 runs in his 4 overs. Liam Livingstone also chipped in with a crucial wicket, though the rest of the bowling unit struggled to contain the explosive DSG batting lineup??.

Also WATCH: Dewald Brevis�six earns a lucky fan $2 m??illion cash prize in the SA20 2??025 opener

Rahmanullah Gurbaz’s heroics in vain

In reply, the Pretoria Capitals came agonizingly close to pulling off the chase, finishing at 207/6 in their 20 overs. Rahmanullah Gurbaz was sensational, smashing 89 runs off 43 balls with 3 fours and 7 towering sixes. Will Jacks complem??ented him with a blist?ering 64 off 35 balls, setting the tone for a thrilling chase.

However, DSG’s bowlers held their nerve in the death overs. Chris Woakes (2/42) and Noor Ahmad (2/34) delivered crucial breakthroughs, while Keshav Maharaj and Naveen ul Haq picked up one wicket each to restrict the Capitals just short of the target. Despite ending on the losing side, Gurbaz wa??s adjudged the Player of the Match for his scintillating knock that kept the Capitals in contention throughout the chase.

Durban Super Giants managed to win a thriller against Pretoria Capitals 💪 #SA20League #SA20
Scorecard: //t.co/DgEUouo5t3 pic.twitter.com/DUsDiFpbZ7

— betvisa68.com (@CricketTimesHQ) January 11, 2025

Also READ: SA20 2025: A complete guide to Indian, Afghanistan and ?Sri L?ankan players participating in the Season 3

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In the cricketing world, the absence of a key player can significantly alter the dynamics of a match. Today’s first ODI between Zimbabwe and Afghanistan in Harare is no exception, as Afghanistan’s dynamic opener, Rahmanullah Gurbaz is not playing today’s game.

Reason why Rahmanullah Gurbaz is not playing today’s game

Notably, Gurbaz has been sidelined of the ODI series due to a combination of injuries. He’s dealing with a Grade 2B quadriceps strain, which is a significant muscle injury that requires time for recovery to avoid further damage. Additionally, Gurbaz has a bony hip flexor injury, further complicating his participation in this series. These injuries mean that Gurbaz’s explosive batting and wicketkeeping skills will not be available for Afghanistan, not only in the first ODI but also for the rest of the series.

🚨 INJURY UPDATE 🚨

Afghanistan's batting sensation, @RGurbaz_21, has been ruled out of the ODI series due to a Grade 2B quadric??eps injury along with a bony hip flexor injury. Mohammad Ishaq has been named as his replacem??ent for the series.

Additionally, after careful�pic.twitter.com/vBmn16fTJo

— Afghanistan Cricket Board (@ACBofficials) December 17, 2024

Also READ: Afghanistan u?nveils squad for the Test series against?? Zimbabwe; Rashid Khan returns

Impact on the team

Gurbaz has been a cornerstone of Afghanistan’s batting lineup, especially in the ODIs where his aggressive style has often set the tone for the innings. His absence is a substantial blow, not just for his batting prowess but also for his role behind the stumps. Afghanistan will now rely on Mohammad Ishaq, who has been called up as Gurbaz’s replacement, to fill this significant void. Ishaq’s inclusion in the squad reflects Afghanistan’s depth but also highlights the challenge of stepping in for someone of Gurbaz’s caliber.

Strategic adjustments for the visitors

With Gurbaz out, Afghanistan’s strategy might see a shift, particularly in how they approach the powerplay overs. His absence could lead to a more cautious opening strategy unless another player steps up to replicate his aggressive start. The visitors might also need to adjust their batting order or perhaps lean more on their middle order to compensate for the loss of firepower at the top. Moreover, without Gurbaz’s wicketkeeping, there might be changes in the field placements or even a different player taking up the gloves, which could affect the team’s fielding dynamics.

Afghanistan bats first after winning the toss

Meanwhile, Afghanistan have won the toss and opted to bowl first. Notably, the match has been reduced t?o 28 overs-per side contest due to rain. Ikram Alikhil has been included in the Afghanistan XI in palce of Gurbaz.

Here is the playing XI of both sides:

Afghanistan (Playing XI): Sediqullah Atal, Abdul Malik, Rahma?t Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Ikram Alikhil (wk), Rashid Khan, AM Ghazanfar, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Naveed Zadran

Zimbabwe (Playing XI): Tadiwanashe Marumani ?(wk), Ben Curran, Dion Myers, Craig Ervine (c), Sean Williams, Sikandar Raza, ?Brian Bennett, Newman Nyamhuri, Richard Ngarava, Blessing Muzarabani, Trevor Gwandu

Also WATC?H: Ravindra Jadeja brings out his trademark sword celebration after hitting a gritty fifty on Day 4 of Gabba Test �AUS vs IND

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As the Indian Premier League (IPL) gears up for its 2025 mega auctions, one name that is likely to attract considerable attention is Rahmanullah Gurbaz. The young Afghan wicketkeeper-batter has been making waves with his explosive performances, particularly in T20 formats. His sublime for??m and ability to change the game make him a prime target for several ??franchises.

3 franchises that will go for Rahmanullah Gurbaz

Gujarat Titans: Filling the void left by Matthew Wade

The Gujarat Titans are in a unique position as they look to bolster their squad following the anticipated departure of Matthew Wade. Wade’s unavailability for the IPL 2025 due to commitments with Australian side after being named as the assistant coach has left a gap in the franchise’s wicketkeeping department. Gurbaz, known for his aggressive batting and sharp keeping skills, would be an ideal replacement. His ability to score quickly and anchor innings aligns perfectly with the Titans’ strategy, making him a valuable asset as they aim for another title run.

Also READ: 3 teams that can target Ravichandran Ashwin in t??he IPL 2025 mega auction

Royal Challengers Bangalore: A need for impactful match-winners

The Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) have long sought a dynamic wicketkeeper-batter who can deliver consistent performances under pressure. With their previous season’s struggles still fresh in mind, RCB are likely to prioritize acquiring players who can turn matches around. Gurbaz’s recent form, including impressive displays in various T20 leagues, showcases his potential as a match-winner. His explosive style fits well with RCB’s aggressive approach, and his addition could provide the much-needed boost to their batting lineup.

Delhi Capitals: Replacing Rishabh Pant

With Rishabh Pant‘s release from the Delhi Capitals, there is an evident void that needs filling. The franchise would benefit from Gurbaz’s skill set, which mirrors some of Pant’s explosive capabilities while also offering solid wicketkeeping. His performance in IPL 2024 demonstrated his ability to handle high-pressure situations and contribute significantly with the bat. The Capitals could see Gurbaz as a long-term investment that not only fills Pant’s shoes but also enhances their overall squad depth.

Gurbaz’s remarkable performances in T20 cricket have positioned him as one of the most sought-after players ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auctions. His current form suggests he could command a high price tag, leading to a competitive bidding war among franchises. However, given Kolkata Knight Riders’ (KKR) previous interest and potential use of their Right to Match (RTM) card, there is a high probabilit?y that they might retain him despite any extortionate bids from rival teams. As the auction approaches, all eyes will be on Gurbaz and how he shapes the future of IPL cricket.

Also READ: 3 teams that can target Ro?mario Shep?herd in the IPL 2025 mega auction

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Rahmanullah Gurbaz‘s match-winning innings in the third and final ODI against Bangladesh showcased not only his batting prowess but also his unique approach to celebrating milestones. His performance was crucial in leading Afghanistan to a series victory, and his celebrations added an emotional touch to the game.

In the game, Gurbaz scored an impressive 101 runs off 120 balls, marking his eighth ODI century. This innings was pivotal for Afghanistan, who chased down Bangladesh‘s total of 244 runs with five wickets to spare. Despite a shaky start where Afghanistan lost quick wickets, Gurbaz anchored the innings, forming a vital partnership of 100 runs with Azmatullah Omarzai, who also contributed significantly with an ??unbeat??en 70 runs.

Rahmanullah Gurbaz’s heartfelt gesture at fifty

Reaching a fifty is always a significant milestone for any cricketer, but Gurbaz added a heartwarming gesture to this achievement. After scoring his half-century off 60 balls, he put down his bat and pointed to the audience making a heart gesture. This moment resonated deeply with fans and players alike, showcasing his emotional connection to the game and the personal significance behind each run he scores. Such gestures not only highlight the player’s dedication but also remind us of the personal stories that often lie behind athletic achievements.

Also READ: WATCH: Zakir Ha??san gets bizarrely run-out after mix-up with Mehidy Hasan Miraz ?in the 3rd ODI

Here’s the video:

.@RGurbaz_21 has been on a mission this eveni?ng in Sharjah! 👊

Keep going and chase this down, Gurbaza! �#AfghanAtalan | #AFGvBAN | #GloriousNationVictoriousTeam pic.twitter.com/ak5PTTBqsj

— Afghanistan Cricket Board (@ACBofficials) November 11, 2024

An aggressive celebration after a century

Upon reaching the three-figure mark in same match, Gurbaz’s celebration took on a more exuberant tone. After hitting a six that brought him to 100 runs, he raised both arms in triumph, exuding confidence and joy. His celebration was brash and unapologetic, as he turned towards the crowd, soaking in their applause and cheers. This moment was not just about personal achievement; it was a statement of intent from a young player who is rapidly establishing himself as one of Afghanistan’s key players on the international stage.

Here’s the video:

Another look at how @RGurbaz_21 brought up his 8th ODI century! 💯💯#AfghanAtalan | #AFGvBAN | #GloriousNationVictoriousTeam pic.twitter.com/3vdhXcGmPD

— Afghanistan Cricket Board (@ACBofficials) November 11, 2024

Also READ: Azmatullah Omarzai, Rahmanullah Gurbaz power Afghanistan to?? series clinching win over Bangladesh in? 3rd ODI

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In the deciding third ODI of the series held at Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Afghanistan triumphed over Bangladesh by five wickets to clinch the series 2-1. Azmatullah Omarzai starred with both bat and ball, earning the Player of the Match title for his all-round performance, as Afghanistan chased down Bangladesh’s total of 244 with 10 balls to spare.

Bangladesh posts a competitive total 

After winning the toss, Bangladesh opted to bat first and put up a competitive total of 244/8 in 50 overs. Their innings was anchored by Mehidy Hasan Miraz (66 off 119 balls) and Mahmudullah (98 off 98 balls), who played a crucial role in reviving the Bangladesh innings after a shaky start. Mahmudullah’s innings, studded with seven fours and three sixes, brought much-needed momentum, while Mehidy provided a steady presence at the crease. Other batters struggled to make significant contributions.

Afghanistan’s bowlers kept things in check, with Omarzai registering figures of 4/37 in his seven overs. Rashid Khan and Mohammad Nabi also contributed with ball, each taking a wicket.

Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Azmatullah Omarzai shine in Afghanistan’s successful chase

In response, Afghanistan’s chase was powered by a superb century from opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz, who scored 101 off 120 deliveries, including five fours and seven sixes. Gurbaz held the innings together despite early dismissals from the top order, with Sediqullah Atal (14), Rahmat Shah (8), and Hashmatullah Shahidi (6) falling cheaply. At 83/4, Afghanistan were in a precarious position, but Gurbaz found able support from Omarzai, who delivered a crucial knock of 70 not out off 77 balls, hitting three fours and five sixes to turn the game in Afghanistan’s favour.

Maarega Maarega to Maar Diya! 🔥

Azmatullah Omarzai takes Afghanistan to the finish line! �#AFGvBANonFanCode pic.twitter.com/qAmMHcBdWk

— FanCode (@FanCode) November 11, 2024

Also READ: Here’s why England opener Phil Salt turned down Rihanna’s house party invitation

Azmatullah Omarzai finishes it off in a style.
Series victory and that roar made my night. Alhmdulilah#AFGvBAN pic.twitter.com/nfUrIWOnUn

— Wahida 🇦🇫 (@Kabuli_girl) November 11, 2024

Gulbadin Naib fel?l early for 1, but Nabi stepped up t??o finish the chase with an unbeaten 34 off 27 balls, sealing the win at 246/5 in 48.2 overs.

The Bangladesh bowlers fought hard, with Nahid Rana and Mustafizur Rahman each taking two wickets. However, the lack of wickets at regular intervals allowed Afghanistan to stay on course, and the economical spell from Nasum ??Ahmed (10 overs, 2 maidens, 24 runs) was not enough to contain their aggress??ive approach.

This victory handed Afghanistan the series win, marking a successful campaign with notable contributions from key players across all three ??matches.

Also? READ: 3 teams that can target Lockie Ferguson in the IPL 2?025 mega auction

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The Guyana Amazon Warriors, defending champions of the Caribbean Premier League (CPL), maintained their perfect start to the 2024 season with a resounding 40-run victory over the St Kitts & Nevis Patriots in Match 7 at Warner Park, Basseterre. This win marks their second consecutive triumph, solidifying their position at the top of the standings early in the tournament. The Warriors’ commanding performance, both with the bat and ball, underscored their intent to defend their title successfully.

Early setbacks and the resurgence

After opting to bat first, the Warriors faced immediate pressure as they lost key wickets in the initial overs. Kevin Sinclair and Shai Hope were dismissed within the powerplay, leaving the Warriors at a precarious position. However, Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Shimron Hetmyer stepped up with a game-changing partnership that swung the momentum back in their favor. The?? duo added a remarkable 116 runs off just 47 balls, with Gurbaz playing? an aggressive role.

Anrich Nortje’s dismissal of Rahmanullah Gurbaz

Anrich Nortje, the South African fast bowler, made a crucial breakthrough in the 14th over by dismissing the dangerous Gurbaz. Nortje delivered a full-length ball that Gurbaz attempted to slog across the line, but he failed to make contact, resulting in the ball crashing into the stumps. Gurbaz’s departure, after a scintillating 69 off 37 balls, temporarily halted the Warriors’ charge, but the foundation had already been laid for a massive total.

Here’s the video:

Nortje lights up the night sky and send Gurbaz packing with this magical moment 🪄 #CPL24 #SKNPvGAW #CricketPlayedLouder #BiggestPartyInSport #Sky365 pic.twitter.com/Wl56XRdmBE

— CPL T20 (@CPL) September 5, 2024

Also READ: West?? Indies legend Curt?ly Ambrose reveals his favourite cricketer

Hetmyer and lower-order power propel Guyana Amazon warriors to record total

Despite Gurbaz’s exit, Hetmyer continued his explosive innings, ensuring that the Warriors maintained their momentum. Hetmyer’s aggressive batting, combined with Keemo Paul‘s rapid 38 off 14 balls and Dwaine Pretorius‘ 13 from just 5 balls, powered the Warriors to an imposing total of 266/7. This score not only became the highest in CPL 2024 but also the second-highest in the history of the tournament, putting immense pressure on the Patriotsâ€?bowlers and setting a formidable target.

St Kitts & Nevis Patriots’ chase stumbles despite Andre Fletcher’s heroics

Andre Fletcher’s explosive 81 off 33 balls gave the Patriots a strong foundation, but the chase faltered after his dismissal by Gudakesh Motie in the 13th over. The Patriots struggled to maintain the required run rate, with wickets falling regularly. A brief rain delay offered a glimmer of hope, but Pretorius quickly ended their resistance, dismissing Mikyle Louis and sealing the Warriors’ win with 12 balls to spare. Imran Tahir’s game-changing double-wicket maiden and Motie’s crucial three-wicket haul, including Fletcher’s scalp, played a decisive role in the Patriots’ third consecutive defeat.

Also WATCH: Noor Ahmad’s stunning delivery sends Fa??bian ?Allen packing on golden duck in the CPL 2024

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The poor fielding display and miscommunication were among the chief reasons that cost Bangladesh a crucial match against Afghanistan in their final Super Eight clash of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. This loss marked the end of Bangladesh’s campaign, as they failed to secure a single victory in the Super Eight stage. With this win over Bangladesh, Afghanistan confirmed their place in the semifinals.

The missed opportunity of the runout

A critical moment unfolded during the 16th over of the first innings when Afghanistan were at 83/1, with pressure mounting on the batters to accelerate. Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Azmatullah Omarzai, who were at the crease, found themselves in a horrendous mix-up that almost cost their side a wicket. Fortunately for them, Bangladesh failed to capitalize due to their lacklustre efforts in the fi?eld.

A poor throw from Rishad Hossain and subsequent misfielding by the Bangladesh fielders resulted in a missed runout opportunity, not once but twice, at both ends. The visibly frustrated Bangladesh veteran Shakib Al Hasan expressed his anger over the sloppy fielding.

Here is the video:

Although this lapse did not immediately prove costly for Bangladesh, as both Gurbaz and Omarzai were dismissed within the next four balls, leaving the score at 88/3, it highlighted Bangladesh’s fielding woes. Afghanistan eventually finished their innings at 115/5 in their allotted 20 overs. Bangladesh, however, failed to chase down the target, losing the fixture by eight runs. This defeat marked the end of Bangladesh’s campaign in the Super Eight stage, while Afghanistan’s victory secured their place in the semifinals.

Also WATCH: Rashid Kha??n ??angrily throws bat at Karim Janat for refusing to run in AFG vs BAN match | T20 World Cup 2024

Afghanistan secures semifinal spot after thrilling victory over Bangladesh

After a thrilling match against Bangladesh, Afghanistan have secured a spot in the semifinals of the 2024 edition. Afghanistan will now face South Africa in the first semifinal on June 27 in Trinidad, a match that promises to test their skills and resolve. Meanwhile, the second semifinal will feature a blockbuster clash between India and England.

Afghanistan have displayed brilliant cricket throughout the tournament. After successfully advancing to the Super Eight, they have continued their impressive run by defeating strong teams like Australia and New Zealand. Their journey to the semifinals highlights their growth and resilience as ??a team, setting the stage for an exciting matchup against South Africa.

Also WATCH: Afghanistan players lift Rashid K?han, coach Jonathan Trott carry Rahmanullah Gurbaz on shoulders after rea??ching the semifinals

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In a thrilling match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, Afghanistan exacted revenge on Australia, securing a historic victory by 21 runs. This landmark win in the 48th match of the tournament marked Afghanistan’s first triumph over Australia in international cricket.

Afghanistan cricket dressing room celebration

The journey to this victorious moment began during the ICC Men’s ODI World Cup 2023, where Afghanistan came agonizingly close to defeating Australia. Although they fell short, the setback only strengthened the team’s resolve. Seven months later, their determination culminated in a resounding victory at the T20 World Cup.

After the match, the Afghanistan team celebrated their victory in the dressing room with all players and staff members. The atmosphere was electric, filled with overwhelming joy and excitement. The players, beaming with prid?e, revelled in their momentous achievements, a feeling that resonated throughout the room.

Here is the video:

Also READ: AFG vs BAN, T20? World Cup 2024: Kingstown Weather Forecast, A??rnos Vale Ground T20I Stats & Records | Afghanistan vs Bangladesh

The mindset of Afghanistan players

Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Afghanistan’s wicketkeeper-batsman, reflected on their previous encounter, saying, “They hurt us in the World Cup, and now we hurt them back.” This statement highlights the strategic mindset and resilience of the Afghan players, who channeled their past disappointment i??nto motivation for success.

Team captain Rashid Khan emphasized the significance of their victory dates, remarking, “23 October and 23 June will be written in history books; on 23 October 2023, we defeated Pakistan in the ICC Men’s ODI World Cup 2023, and now we have done it again.” This sentiment underscores the symbolic importance of these victories and the team’s belief in their destiny.

With this win, Afghanistan have taken a significant step towards securing a place in the semifinals of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024. Their performance has not only made history but also inspired hope and pride among their fans. As they continue their journey in the tournament, the team’s resilience and strategic approach will be key factors in their quest for further success.

Also READ: Afghanistan players celebrate historic win o?ver Australia on Dwayne Bravo’s iconic ‘Champion�song | T20 World Cup 2024

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