Sachin Tendulkar, Virat Kohli's elite ODI records shattered by Rahmanullah Gurbaz as Afghanistan script BAN series win

Rahmanullah Gurbaz Breaks Elite ODI Records of Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli as Afghanistan Seals Series Win Against Bangladesh

Afghanistan's young wicketkeeper-batter, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, has made history by surpassing elite ODI records previously held by cricket legends Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli. In a thrilling match against Bangladesh, Gurbaz’s remarkable century not only led Afghanistan to a series victory but also placed him among the youngest players to achieve multiple ODI centuries.

A Record-Breaking Innings

On November 11, 2024, in the third and final ODI against Bangladesh at Sharjah, Rahmanullah Gurbaz played a match-winning knock of 101 runs off 120 balls. His innings, laced with five boundaries and seven towering sixes, helped Afghanistan chase down a target of 245, securing a five-wicket victory and clinching the series 2-1.

At just 22 years and 349 days old, Gurbaz became the second-youngest player in history to reach eight ODI centuries, overtaking cricketing greats like Sachin Tendulkar, Virat Kohli, and Babar Azam. The record for the youngest player to achieve this feat is still held by South African wicketkeeper-batter Quinton de Kock, who accomplished it at 22 years and 312 days.

Outperforming the Legends

Gurbaz's eighth ODI century also places him in an elite group of batters who scored eight centuries before turning 23. This remarkable feat sees him joining the ranks of Tendulkar and de Kock, both of whom had also reached this milestone at a young age. Meanwhile, Virat Kohli, one of modern cricket's greatest players, had managed seven centuries before turning 23, a record that Gurbaz has now surpassed.

Afghanistan’s Rising Star

This record-breaking performance is a testament to Gurbaz’s consistency and maturity as a top-order batter. Ever since his international debut, he has been a vital asset for Afghanistan, displaying remarkable skill and temperament in high-pressure games. His ability to score centuries at such a young age highlights his potential to become one of the greats of the modern era.

Afghanistan’s cricketing journey has been inspiring, and performances like Gurbaz’s continue to elevate the team’s stature on the international stage. With his aggressive batting style and fearless approach, Gurbaz is shaping up to be one of the most exciting young talents in world cricket.

What’s Next for Gurbaz?

With the ODI World Cup and other major tournaments on the horizon, Rahmanullah Gurbaz will be a key player for Afghanistan. His ability to deliver match-winning performances under pressure makes him a player to watch in the coming years. If he continues on this trajectory, he has the potential to break even more records and solidify his place among cricket’s elite.

Afghanistan’s series win against Bangladesh, powered by Gurbaz’s sensational knock, is yet another sign that the team is becoming a formidable force in international cricket. The future looks bright for Afghan cricket, and Rahmanullah Gurbaz is leading the charge.