Rajneesh Naresh Gurbani is an emerging cricket player from India, who has already made a significant impact in the domestic circuit. Born on March 21, 1993, in Nagpur, Maharashtra, Gurbani developed a passion for cricket at a young age and has pursued it with immense dedication throughout his career.
Gurbani’s playing style can be likened to that of Bhuvneshwar Kumar, as he relies heavily on swing bowling. Despite not being an express paceman, Gurbani’s average speed of 130-135 kph allows him to generate skiddy pace, making him a dangerous bowler in front of the stumps. What sets him apart is his ability to consistently find subtle movement off the pitch, making him a formidable opponent for any batsman.
Before venturing into professional cricket, Gurbani completed his civil engineering degree, highlighting his commitment to balancing academics and sports. He made his debut for the Vidarbha Ranji Trophy team during the 2016-17 season, having previously showcased his talent in the state’s Under-19 and Under-23 tournaments.
Gurbani’s potential was evident right from the start, as he delivered back-to-back four-wicket hauls against Saurashtra and Delhi. These performances served as a preview of the great things to come from the young bowler. The following year, Gurbani experienced a breakthrough season, displaying exceptional composure and initiative in crucial situations.
Armed with an improved inswinger, Gurbani became Vidarbha’s go-to man during their journey to their maiden Ranji Trophy final. From the last group-stage game onwards, he recorded five five-wicket hauls, leaving spectators in awe of his skill. Notably, he played a pivotal role in Vidarbha’s quarter-final victory over Kerala, where he picked up four wickets in as many overs, leading the team to a resounding 412-run win.
In the semi-final against Karnataka, Gurbani displayed his prowess once again, securing five-wicket hauls in both innings. However, his most remarkable performance came during the final against Delhi when he accomplished a rare feat in cricket, taking a hat-trick on the second morning. Gurbani became only the second bowler in the history of the Ranji Trophy to achieve this milestone in a final.
Gurbani’s rise in domestic cricket has attracted attention not only for his bowling skills but also for his calmness under pressure. His ability to perform consistently in crucial matches has earned him respect and admiration from teammates and opponents alike. With his exceptional swing bowling and knack for taking wickets at vital moments, Gurbani has become an integral part of Vidarbha’s success.
As he continues to progress in his career, Gurbani has the potential to become a valuable asset for the Indian national cricket team. His dedication, hard work, and natural talent have laid a strong foundation for a successful future. With the right opportunities and guidance, Gurbani is poised to make a significant impact on the international stage, representing India with pride and excellence.
