KKR’s Gurbaz Returns to IPL Playoffs Amid Mother’s Hospitalization

Two-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders saw the return of Rahmanullah Gurbaz to the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 playoffs as he stood by his team despite his mother’s ongoing hospitalization. Gurbaz’s dedication to his ‘KKR family’ shone through as he mentioned coming back from Afghanistan to support the team after English opener Phil Salt departed for national duty.

In a thrilling Qualifier 1 match against Sunrisers Hyderabad, KKR showcased their prowess under the leadership of captain Shreyas Iyer and stellar performances by Venkatesh Iyer and the standout bowler Mitchell Starc.

Starc’s remarkable display with the ball, picking up crucial wickets, helped restrict Hyderabad to a below-par total of 159. The Iyer duo then led the charge with an impressive chase, securing KKR’s spot in the IPL 2024 final, set to take place in Ahmedabad.

Despite Gurbaz’s absence during the league phase, his impactful return in the playoffs added depth to KKR’s lineup, with a quickfire 23 off 14 balls and sharp fielding contributions. The Afghan cricketer expressed gratitude for the support from his KKR teammates during a challenging personal time.

Phil Salt’s departure to join the England squad ahead of the T20 World Cup created an opportunity for Gurbaz to step up, showcasing his commitment to the team’s success. As KKR gears up for the final showdown, Gurbaz’s return under challenging circumstances highlights the camaraderie and resilience within the franchise.