IPL 2024: Rahmanullah Gurbaz keen to learn lessons from Gautam Gambhir

As the Indian Premier League 2024 season approaches, Kolkata Knight Riders' Afghanistan batter Rahmanullah Gurbaz is eager to learn from the experienced Gautam Gambhir. In his second year with KKR, the 22-year-old Gurbaz is keen on getting his fundamentals and techniques right, focusing on proper cricketing shots and seeking guidance from the seasoned campaigner Gambhir.

Gurbaz, who had a successful ODI World Cup in 2023 with 280 runs at a strike rate of nearly 99, believes in sticking to conventional shots as an opener before attempting any heroic strokes. He sees the IPL as a crucial opportunity to prepare for the upcoming T20 World Cup in June.

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I think I am well prepared: Rahmanullah Gurbaz 

“Gambhir sir is one of the most experienced people around. So, whenever I need anything, I can go to him and seek his advice," Gurbaz was quoted as saying by The Telegraph online.

"At present, I think I am well prepared and I know how to adjust to different conditions. 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.

Gurbaz acknowledged the importance of playing good cricketing shots, especially as an opener. “Yes, you have to have certain options, but as an opener, I must be able to play good cricketing shots. And then in the end, I can try those (cheeky shots) if the team requires,” Gurbaz, eyeing a successful IPL to be prepared for the T20 World Cup in June, said.

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Despite his success, Gurbaz remains grounded and committed to helping the less fortunate. Recalling his humble beginnings when he couldn't afford basic cricketing equipment, he prioritises contributing to the needy.

"We all are humans, so we should help each other. 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.

KKR kickstart their IPL 2024 campaign against Sunrisers Hyderabad on March 23, the two-time champions will be looking to end their decade-long wait for an IPL title.