In a remarkable feat during the ongoing T20 World Cup 2024, Afghanistan openers Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran joined an elite list of batters by recording their second successive 100-run partnership. This achievement places them alongside Indian cricket legends Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, who set the record in 2014.
On Friday, June 7, Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran compiled a 103-run stand against New Zealand, following their 154-run partnership in Afghanistan’s opening match against Uganda. This consistency at the top of the order has significantly bolstered Afghanistan’s campaign in Group C.
Rahmanullah Gurbaz, continuing his fine form, scored 80 runs off 56 balls, adding to his 76-run performance against Uganda. Ibrahim Zadran contributed 44 runs off 41 balls, building on his 70-run knock from the previous game.
New Zealand, playing their first match of the tournament, struggled in the field, dropping catches and missing run-out opportunities during the powerplay. Notably, wicketkeeper Devon Conway, returning from an injury layoff, missed two stumping chances. These errors allowed Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran to capitalize, propelling Afghanistan to a strong position.
Afghanistan reached 100 runs in quick time, with both openers cautiously navigating a slow pitch early on. The duo shifted gears post the drinks break, accelerating the run rate to set a competitive total of 159 in 20 overs.
T20 World Cup Partnership Records:
The remarkable partnership by Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran equaled the record for most successive 100-run stands in T20 World Cups, a feat previously achieved only by Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. The list of pairs with the most hundred-plus partnerships in T20 World Cups now includes:
– Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan (3) – Pakistan
– Adam Gilchrist, Matthew Hayden (2) – Australia
– Alex Hales, Eoin Morgan (2) – England
– Mahela Jayawardene, Kumar Sangakkara (2) – Sri Lanka
– Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma (2) – India
– David Warner, Shane Watson (2) – Australia
– Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran (2) – Afghanistan
Match Recap
Afghanistan’s strong total put New Zealand under pressure right from the start. Fast bowler Fazalhaq Farooqi delivered a stellar performance, taking three wickets in the powerplay. Star spinner Rashid Khan dismissed New Zealand captain Kane Williamson, leaving the BlackCaps struggling at 40 for 4 by the end of the 7th over.
Fazalhaq Farooqi, who had previously taken five wickets against Uganda, played a crucial role in Afghanistan’s bowling attack. His early breakthroughs, combined with Rashid Khan’s expertise, ensured that New Zealand could not recover, securing another impressive victory for Afghanistan.
Leading Run-Scorer
Rahmanullah Gurbaz’s outstanding performances have made him the leading run-scorer of the T20 World Cup 2024, amassing 156 runs in two matches. His leadership at the top of the order has been instrumental in Afghanistan’s success, as they continue to make significant strides in the tournament.
