Afghanistan’s explosive opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz has surpassed Babar Azam and equaled Virat Kohli in a special feat for scoring the most ODI centuries before turning 23.
During the second ODI against South Africa in Sharjah, Gurbaz notched his seventh ODI century, playing a pivotal role in Afghanistan’s historic series win over a top-five-ranked team in the ICC standings.
Gurbaz’s seven centuries before turning 23 now surpass Babar Azam’s six, putting Gurbaz ahead of the Pakistan captain.
Gurbaz has also drawn level with Virat Kohli, who scored seven centuries in ODIs before turning 23. He now has a chance to match Sachin Tendulkar and Quinton de Kock, both of whom scored eight centuries before their 23rd birthdays.
Gurbaz provided Afghanistan with a solid platform, scoring 105 runs off 110 balls with 10 boundaries and three sixes at a strike rate of 95.45. His innings was crucial in Afghanistan posting a formidable total of 311/4. After his dismissal by Nandre Burger, Azmatullah Omarzai added an unbeaten 86 off 50 balls, propelling Afghanistan’s score even further.
In response, Rashid Khan, despite battling a hamstring injury, spun a web around the South African batting line-up, picking up 5 wickets for just 19 runs, ensuring a comprehensive 177-run victory for Afghanistan.
The third and final ODI is set to take place on Sunday at Sharjah Cricket Stadium, where Gurbaz could potentially match more historic records.
