Rahmanullah Gurbaz Leaves Ailing Mother to Join KKR: “They Needed Me”

Midway through the 2024 Indian Premier League, Rahmanullah Gurbaz departed the Kolkata Knight Riders camp to take care of his sick mother in Afghanistan. The opener said he got a call from the KKR management asking about his availability, and he made the difficult decision to go back to his “other family” without second thought.

Notably, KKR desperately needed an opener, and Phil Salt had to leave the camp for international duty. Rahmanullah Gurbaz disclosed that he speaks to his mother every day and that she is still ill. Although it is difficult for him to oversee, he said, he wanted to be there for his team, particularly after they made it to the playoffs.

“My mother is still unwell. I was there (in my native Afghanistan). I received a call from KKR as soon as Phil Salt departed. ‘Rahmanullah Gurbazz, we need you; what is your situation?’ they messaged and called me. I promised to attend. Rahmanullah Gurbazz stated at the news conference following the game, “My mother is still recovering in the hospital; I speak to her every day. But I was aware that my KKR was also my family. I was needed here. I returned from my trip to Afghanistan. It’s challenging, but I have to persevere “.

You need to be prepared whenever the opportunity arises : Rahmanullah Gurbaz

This season, Gurbaz was not KKR’s first-choice keeper-batter. Gurbaz did not receive any playing time since Salt was favored over him and the Englishman was excellent during his tenure with the team. The young player said he was aware that only four international cricket players could field simultaneously and that those who were not given the opportunity should still be well-prepared.

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“I should make this clear. As an athlete, you are aware of what to do. Only four international players are allowed to play in the XI in League Cricket. You ought to make an effort to do well if you have the chance. If there isn’t a chance, you still need to be ready and well-prepared. The 22-year-old stated, “You have to be ready whenever you get the chance.”