In a remarkable display of sportsmanship, Indian cricket legend Virat Kohli gifted bats to Afghanistan's Rahmanullah Gurbaz following an intense match against South Africa. Gurbaz, who scored a stunning 84 runs, expressed his gratitude on Instagram, calling Kohli an inspiration. The match, which ended in a tie after two Super Overs, showcased Gurbaz's talent and determination. Despite the loss, his impressive career statistics highlight his significance in Afghanistan's cricket history. Discover more about this thrilling encounter and Gurbaz's journey in cricket.

Kohli's Gesture for Gurbaz

Rahmanullah Gurbaz, the opener for Afghanistan, received a special gift of cricket bats from Indian cricket star Virat Kohli. This gesture came after Gurbaz's impressive performance in a nail-biting match against South Africa, which featured two Super Overs.

Gurbaz's Heartfelt Thanks

Taking to Instagram, Gurbaz expressed his gratitude, referring to Kohli as 'not just a legend but an inspiration for all generations.' He wrote, 'Thank you for the most amazing gift @virat.kohli bahi. You are not just a legend; you are the inspiration for all generations. #happiness #handmade #happyday #gifts #thankful.'

A Thrilling Encounter

In a gripping match held at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, Gurbaz showcased his talent with a remarkable innings of 84 runs off 42 balls, including four boundaries and seven sixes. Despite his efforts, the match concluded in a tie.

In the first Super Over, South Africa matched Afghanistan's total of 17 runs, thanks to a last-ball six from Tristan Stubbs.

During the second Super Over, South Africa scored 23 runs, bolstered by two sixes from David Miller and another from Stubbs. Gurbaz, after facing a dot ball and losing a wicket, brought hope to his team by hitting three consecutive sixes off Keshav Maharaj before being dismissed on the final ball, marking a disappointing second consecutive loss for Afghanistan.

Gurbaz's Impressive Career Stats

Gurbaz stands as Afghanistan's second-highest run-scorer in T20 internationals, amassing 2,250 runs with an average of 26.47 and a strike rate of 135.54, including one century and 13 fifties, with a top score of 100.

In the broader context, he ranks fifth among Afghanistan's international run-scorers, having accumulated 4,235 runs at an average of 30.25 across 139 matches, with nine centuries and 20 fifties in 141 innings, and a highest score of 151.