New face in pace pack

Before the start of this seasons Ranji Trophy semifinal, the talk was all about a clash of unequals. Odds heavily favoured an all-round Karnataka side that had a fine balance of experience and youth. Vidarbha, tagged underdogs, were expected to offer a stiff fight and little else. However, at the conclusion of a thrilling contest, R Vinay Kumars men were blown away by an unexpected storm called Rajneesh Gurbani.

The lean 24-year-old doesnt come across as an imposing medium pacer. Be it his gentle run-up or a simple action, Gurbani doesnt offer an image of a lethal speedster. But his shrewd operation with the ball and commendable discipline makes him a dangerous customer. Gurbanis 12-wicket haul for the match in the last-four clash was an extension of his fine form and he fittingly bagged a hat-trick in the final against Delhi to play a key role in Vidarbhas maiden title triumph. Gurbani was the toast of his team with 39 wickets from six matches, emerging as an exciting prospect.

“The match against Karnataka was the biggest of my life. It was our first ever semifinal and we were all charged up,” says Gurbani, underlining the importance of the match. “I am glad …read more