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Gujarat Titans are reportedly set to sign Afghanistan's wicket-keeper batter Rahmanullah Gurbaz as Jason Roy's replacement after the latter pulled out of the 15th edition of IPL citing personal reasons. However, Roy was one of the significant acquisitions from the Gujarat franchise in the batting department after the franchise had roped him in for Rs. 2 crores. Suresh Raina's name was also speculated as Roy's replacement, but the Gujarat franchise refuted the rumours.
The Afghan opening batter and wicket-keeper has recently grabbed a lot of limelight after he smashed a cracking hundred against Bangladesh. Gurbaz became a batting sensation after he represented his country in U19. He was widely applauded for his batting style as he is known for hitting bowlers all around the park. Gurbaz also represents Islamabad United in the Pakistan Super League and has shown his potential by being one of the most explosive batter in the tournament. While playing for Islamabad United, Gurbaz scored 139 runs in six innings at a strike-rate of 181. He made a valuable contribution to his team's successful stint at PSL 2022. The 20-year old has scored 534 runs in 20 T20I which includes three 50 plus scores at an average of 26.70, but his strike rate speaks volumes of his talent. His current strike rate is 137.62.
Another aspect that can work wonders for Gurbaz is that the majority of cricket he has played is in subcontinent conditions, which will give him a massive advantage during IPL 2022. With, Gurbaz set to join Titans for the upcoming edition, he might open alongside Shubhman Gill, another young prodigy. Gujarat Titans are all set to make their debut in the Indian Premier League, with Hardik Pandya leading the side.
The BCCI on Sunday announced the schedule for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022, which will be held in Mumbai and Pune. Gujarat Titans will begin their campaign against Lucknow Super Giants on March 28. Titans will play their 2nd match against Delhi Capitals on April 2 at MCA Stadium in Pune. Hardik Pandya-led side's last league match is against RCB on May 15, 2022.
