Afghanistan’s opener Rahmanullah Garbaz Credit to India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir To help improve his batting style after scoring a stunning century against the hosts in the opening ODI at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala on Saturday.Gurbaz was the standout performer in Afghanistan’s innings, scoring 102 runs off just 51 balls. His explosive innings included eight fours and eight sixes and was his ninth ODI century. However, despite their heroics, Afghanistan were bowled out for 194 in 24.5 overs as no other batsman could make a significant contribution.Speaking after the innings, Garbaz revealed that his interaction with Gambhir after Afghanistan’s heavy 300-run defeat in the only Test at Milanpore had played a major role in his preparation.“After the Test match, I had a very good discussion with Gautam Gambhir (and) that discussion really helped me,” Garbaz told the broadcaster.The Afghanistan opener explained that he had specifically approached the Indian coach to seek advice on improving his batting decisions.“I worked on these ideas in the net, and I’m very grateful for the guidance,” he said. When the Test match was over, I told him that I wanted to improve my shot selection.According to Garbaz, Gambhir’s suggestions were straightforward but effective, and he was able to implement them during his match-winning innings.“He shared some positive thoughts and I was able to apply them today. I just tried to play positively and it worked for me,” added the right-hander.While Garbaz dominated the Indian attack, Afghanistan struggled to form a partnership around him. India’s debutants, Gurnoor Brar and Harsh DubeyShared six wickets between them and made an immediate impact. Brar returned figures of 3/27, while Dubey claimed 3/47 to dismiss Afghanistan inside 25 overs.Reflecting on his approach, Garbaz said the shorter format encouraged positive intent, but insisted he remained focused on playing his natural game.“It was very simple and easy to just play positive cricket. We knew it was a 25-over game, but I also know my game. I just backed myself and played for the team,” he said.The 24-year-old added that representing Afghanistan is his biggest motivation and credited the century as a reward for the efforts he has put in behind the scenes.“It felt good to contribute. It’s always good to do something for my country and make everyone proud. I trust my training and preparation. I work hard, and this innings is the result of that hard work.“Scoring a century against India in India is special, but like I mentioned, it’s a reward for my hard work.”
