February 14, 2025

Gurbaz and Omarzai: Afghanistan’s ODI Surge Drivers

Afghanistan, renowned for its T20 cricket skills due to its franchise-based league experience, is now finding its feet in 50-over cricket.

Afghanistan is confident after strong 2023 World Cup and ODI series wins against Zimbabwe, Bangladesh, and South Africa before the 2025 Champions Trophy. Visit bet pro login for more amazing cricket news.

The ODI Evolution of Afghanistan

Afghanistan has always had a good bowling attack, but their ODI batting has been inconsistent. T20 mentality has been their biggest difficulty, hindering their 50-over innings building.

While Ibrahim Zadran, who usually anchors the innings, is injured, Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Azmatullah Omarzai have adapted well to ODI cricket and contributed to Afghanistan’s recent triumphs.

The Mature Aggressive Opener: Rahmanullah Gurbaz

Since his international debut, Gurbaz has been admired for his aggressive shot-making and fearlessness against bowlers of any renown. His highly aggressive style in ODIs sometimes doomed him.

Gurbaz regained his rhythm in 50-over cricket in 2024, showing more composure. He averaged 48.27 in 11 innings with three hundred and two fifties.

Gurbaz maturely scored hundreds in the series-deciding matches against South Africa and Bangladesh without Zadran.

Batting Coach Andrew Puttick on Gurbaz

Afghanistan’s batting coach, Andrew Puttick, lauds Gurbaz’s dedication and preparedness.

“Gurbaz is a gifted athlete. I worked alongside one of the hardest workers. He prepares methodically, hits plenty of balls, and puts himself under pressure. He concentrates on batting. He wants to perform well and will improve.”

Puttick also noted Gurbaz’s improved shot selection and disciplined footwork.

“We know he likes to use his feet and pressure bowlers. Now, he uses his feet more carefully, plays closer to his body, and makes more selected shots. He wants long innings and large hundreds.”

This strategy has helped Gurbaz score runs more consistently and provide Afghanistan with excellent starts, relieving middle-order pressure.

The Perfect All-Rounder: Azmatullah Omarzai

While Gurbaz has thrived as an opener, Omarzai’s ascent has benefited Afghanistan. With his improved batting and bowling, he’s become an all-rounder.

Omarzai took 17 wickets at 20.47, including 4-18 against Zimbabwe, and scored 417 runs at 52.12 in 2024. He was the first Afghan to win the ICC Men’s ODI Cricketer of the Year title for his all-around play.

The Key to Omarzai’s Success

Afghanistan’s head coach, Jonathan Trott, promoted Omarzai up the batting order and gave him more responsibilities. This action, according to Puttick, changed Afghanistan’s game.

“Omarzai’s bowling balances the team, and he can use the fresh ball. He comes in at five but can bat anytime. He can clear boundaries, get off strike swiftly, and relieve pressure. One of the cleanest ball strikers.”

Puttick also stated that Omarzai was not a top batter, but Trott’s faith in him helped him succeed in the middle order.

“He’s improved as a batter. He boasts an ODI century and numerous match-winning innings. He’s another improving man.”

Afghanistan’s Rising ODI Goals

Afghanistan has grown in ODI cricket thanks to Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Azmatullah Omarzai. It is no longer an enticing underdog but a team that can compete with the best in the 2025 Champions Trophy. If its rise continues, it could be a global contender.

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