AFG vs NZ | Twitter in awe as Gurbaz humbly gives Boult his flowers after unplayable yorker

06/08/2024

The ability to appreciate greatness is the hallmark of a true champion and Rahmanullag Gurbaz is quickly climbing the ranks as one of the leaders of the modern game. After a potentially match-winning knock of 80, the opener did not hesitate in commending Trent Boult's brilliance to end his stay.

‌Afghanistan continued to prove their mettle on the big stage with a resounding batting performance in Guyana against top guns New Zealand in their group stage encounter. The Asian contingent posted 159/6 on the board courtesy of a riveting 56-ball 80 by Rahmanullah Gurbaz, replete with five boundaries and as many big blows beyond the boundary ropes. The opener started slow but picked up serious pace towards the end of the innings and showcased his world-class potential with 93 and 105-metre maximums in the penultimate over to put the Kiwis under the pump. However, just as he was teeing off, New Zealand managed to limit the damage on the back of Trent Boult's brilliancy leading to a wholesome sporting moment.

Entrusted with the final over, Boult fired in the perfect yorker on the second delivery that deviated ever so slightly in the air to beat Gurbaz's attempt at a block and rattled into the off-stump. The wicket-keeper batter immediately nodded his head with the realization that he could not have done much to survive the delivery while a smile enveloped Boult's face. The 22-year-old then gracefully walked up to the experienced veteran and offered a congratulatory first bump that was duly accepted along with some kind words by Boult.

The show of mutual respect between the two elite performers sparked a series of reactions on social media.

Gentlemen

— Jackson Hernandez (@JHernandez9286)

Well played

Well played Gurbaz 🤯🔥

80 of 56 balls against Blackcaps in the T20 worldcup against Boult ,Henry , Ferguson, Santner 🥹🔥
— Devendra 🇮🇳 (@Devendra786s)

Lovely

What a beauty, Trent Boult 🔥. In addition to that, What a knock by Rahmanullah Gurbaz. The ball was flying over the park when he was at the crease. His humble upbringing have obviously given him the greatest blessing of playing this innings. |
— NZ Men's Cricket - Fan Page 🇳🇿 (@nz_kiwi0107)

Defend it

Afghanistan need to defend 160 run target against Newzeland.

Just 3 run conceded by Trent Boult in his last over and also got 3 wickets including Rahmanullah Gurbaz.
— Giriraj Dhaker (@cricket24_)

Thunderous

Thunder bolt Trent Boult. He sent back Rahmatullah Gurbaz 80(54). NZ needs 160 runs to avoid an upset.
— Ganpat Teli (@gateposts_)

Break time

🚨INNINGS BREAK🚨

Afghanistan🇦🇫 - 1⃣5⃣9⃣ - 6⃣

New Zealand 🇳🇿 need 1⃣6⃣0⃣ runs in 2⃣0⃣ overs

Rahmanullah Gurbaz - 8⃣0⃣ runs

Ibrahim Zadran - 4⃣4⃣ runs

Trent Boult - 2⃣/2⃣2⃣

Matt Henry - 2⃣/3⃣7⃣││
— Shadow (@krish_shadow)

Well set

Gurbaz well set on 80, run outs Rashid Khan to take strike in last over

( Rashid Khan was not happy )

And on the very next ball Gurbaz gets clean bowled by Trent boult 😂

Below par total by Afghanistan btw.
— Prateek (@prateek_295)

True