NEWS

news

Amazon Announces Transformative Economic Initiatives for Telangana: Boosting SME Exports, Women Entrepreneurs, and Gig Worker Welfare Amazon's commitment to Telangana's economic development reaches new heights as the global e-commerce giant unveils three comprehensive initiatives designed to empower small and medium enterprises, support women entrepreneurs, and improve gig worker welfare across the state. Following Chief Minister Revanth Reddy's strategic meetings with Amazon leadership at the PAFI Annual Conclave, these groundbreaking programs position Telangana as a model for inclusive economic growth while strengthening Amazon's largest global operations center outside the United States. Amazon Hyderabad campus exterior showcasing the company's growing presence and infrastructure in Telangana Amazon's Strategic Expansion in Telangana Creates Foundation for Economic Growth Amazon's relationship with Telangana represents one of the most significant corporate investments in India's technology landscape. The company has established its largest corporate building globally in Hyderabad, serving as the cornerstone of operations that extend far beyond traditional e-commerce services. With recent announcements of a massive ₹60,000 crore investment in data center infrastructure, Amazon Web Services continues to position Telangana as India's premier cloud computing hub. The state's strategic importance to Amazon's operations cannot be overstated. Three major AWS data centers already operate in Hyderabad, with plans for significant expansion to support artificial intelligence and machine learning services across India. This technological infrastructure creates the backbone for Amazon's latest initiatives supporting local businesses and communities, demonstrating how digital transformation drives inclusive economic development. Chief Minister Revanth Reddy's vision for transforming Telangana into a ₹1 trillion economy by 2035 aligns perfectly with Amazon's expansion plans. The state's business-friendly policies, robust infrastructure, and skilled workforce have attracted Amazon's continued investment, making it an ideal laboratory for innovative programs that could be replicated across India. SME Export Initiative: Connecting Telangana Businesses to Global Markets Amazon's commitment to promoting small and medium enterprise exporters from Telangana through its global platform addresses a critical need in India's export ecosystem. The program builds upon Amazon's successful Global Selling initiative, which has already enabled over ₹13 billion in cumulative exports from India, supporting more than 150,000 businesses across 200 cities. Telangana government and corporate leaders engage in strategic discussions at Davos under #TelanganaAtDavos initiative The significance of this initiative extends beyond mere platform access. Amazon's global marketplace reaches customers in over 200 countries, providing Telangana's SMEs with unprecedented market access that would be virtually impossible to achieve independently. The program includes comprehensive support services, including digital marketing training, product listing optimization, imaging and cataloging assistance, and regulatory compliance guidance for international markets. Telangana's robust MSME ecosystem, supported by the state's recent ₹600 crore investment in MSME development over five years, creates an ideal foundation for Amazon's export acceleration program. The state's new MSME Policy 2024 emphasizes enhancing market access and promoting e-commerce participation, making it a natural partner for Amazon's global expansion efforts. The program addresses specific challenges faced by Telangana's exporters, including limited market knowledge, complex compliance requirements, and logistical barriers. Amazon's partnership with the Directorate General of Foreign Trade demonstrates the comprehensive approach needed to scale e-commerce exports, with dedicated capacity-building sessions and workshops designed specifically for MSME exporters. Empowering Women Entrepreneurs Through the Kalakar Program Amazon's Kalakar program represents a strategic evolution of the company's successful Saheli initiative, which has already digitized over 1.8 million women-led businesses across India. The program's focus on Telangana reflects the state's commitment to inclusive economic development and recognizes women entrepreneurs as critical drivers of sustainable growth. Portraits of diverse women entrepreneurs symbolizing empowerment in online marketplaces in India The program provides comprehensive support including subsidized referral fees, personalized training sessions, dedicated account management, professional product photography, and enhanced marketing support. These services address the primary barriers that prevent women entrepreneurs from accessing digital marketplaces, including technical knowledge gaps, resource constraints, and limited marketing expertise. Telangana's supportive policy environment for women entrepreneurs creates an ideal ecosystem for the Kalakar program's expansion. The state's MSME Policy 2024 includes specific provisions for women-owned enterprises, including increased capital investment subsidies from 10% to 20% and enhanced support for women-led manufacturing units. This policy alignment ensures that Amazon's private sector initiatives complement government support structures. The program's impact extends beyond individual business success stories. By connecting women entrepreneurs with global markets, the initiative contributes to financial independence, community development, and cultural preservation. Success stories from the existing Saheli program demonstrate how digital platforms can transform traditional crafts and local products into globally recognized brands. Revolutionary Gig Worker Welfare: 100 Relaxation Centers Across Hyderabad Amazon's announcement of 100 relaxation centers for gig workers across Hyderabad represents a groundbreaking approach to worker welfare in India's rapidly expanding gig economy. This initiative addresses the practical needs of an estimated 4.5 lakh gig workers in Telangana, providing essential infrastructure that supports worker well-being and productivity. A modern rest lounge pod for delivery gig workers in Chennai, providing a dedicated space for relaxation and amenities The relaxation centers will offer comprehensive facilities including secure parking, mobile charging stations, air-conditioned rest areas, and potentially basic refreshment facilities. These amenities address critical challenges faced by gig workers, who often spend 10-12 hours daily on the road with limited access to basic facilities. The centers benefit workers across all platforms, not exclusively Amazon's delivery network, demonstrating the company's commitment to supporting the broader gig economy ecosystem. This initiative aligns perfectly with Telangana's pioneering approach to gig worker protection. The state recently introduced the draft Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Bill 2025, which establishes comprehensive social security frameworks and welfare measures for platform-based workers. Amazon's relaxation centers complement these regulatory protections by providing immediate, tangible benefits that improve daily working conditions. The collaborative approach between Amazon and the Telangana government creates a model for public-private partnerships in worker welfare. While the government focuses on regulatory frameworks and social security systems, Amazon provides practical infrastructure that enhances working conditions. This partnership demonstrates how corporate social responsibility can effectively complement government policy initiatives. Government Leadership Driving Collaborative Economic Development The success of Amazon's initiatives in Telangana reflects the strategic leadership of key government officials who have fostered an environment conducive to public-private partnerships. Chief Minister Revanth Reddy's Telangana Rising 2047 vision provides the policy framework for transforming the state into a global economic powerhouse. Special Chief Secretary Jayesh Ranjan's role in facilitating these partnerships cannot be understated. As the Principal Secretary of Industries & Commerce and Information Technology Departments, Ranjan brings extensive experience in attracting investments and developing policy frameworks that support business growth. His presence at the Amazon meetings underscores the government's commitment to ensuring successful implementation of these initiatives. The collaboration between Amazon Vice President Chetan Krishnaswamy and Telangana officials demonstrates the effectiveness of sustained engagement between corporate leadership and government stakeholders. Krishnaswamy's extensive experience in public policy, including previous roles at Google and Intel, provides the expertise needed to navigate complex regulatory environments while developing programs that benefit all stakeholders. Economic Impact and Scalability Potential Amazon's three initiatives in Telangana are projected to generate significant economic benefits that extend far beyond the immediate participants. The SME export program alone could contribute hundreds of crores to the state's export earnings, building upon Telangana's existing strength in pharmaceutical and technology exports. The economic multiplier effect of these programs creates opportunities throughout Telangana's economy. Enhanced SME exports generate increased demand for logistics services, financial products, and business support services. Women entrepreneurs' success creates employment opportunities and skills development in rural and semi-urban areas. Improved gig worker conditions attract more people to platform-based employment, supporting the state's growing e-commerce ecosystem. The scalability of these initiatives positions Telangana as a testing ground for programs that could be replicated across India. Success in Telangana provides valuable insights for expanding similar programs to other states, potentially transforming India's approach to inclusive economic development through public-private partnerships. The integration of these initiatives with Telangana's broader economic development strategy, including the proposed Bharat Future City and Regional Ring Road projects, creates synergies that amplify their individual impacts. Amazon's initiatives support the human capital development needed for Telangana's transformation into a global business hub. Digital Infrastructure as Economic Development Foundation Amazon Web Services' massive infrastructure investment in Telangana creates the digital foundation necessary for these community-focused initiatives. The ₹60,000 crore investment in data centers not only supports cloud computing services but also enables the digital platforms that connect SMEs to global markets and provide gig workers with sophisticated logistics systems. This infrastructure investment demonstrates how technology companies can contribute to economic development beyond their core business operations. The data centers create high-skilled employment opportunities while enabling digital transformation across traditional industries. This creates a virtuous cycle where infrastructure investment enables community programs that build the human capital needed to maximize infrastructure utilization. The timing of Amazon's infrastructure and community investments aligns with India's broader digital transformation initiatives. Programs like Digital India and Startup India create national frameworks that amplify the impact of state-level initiatives like those in Telangana. Future Implications for Corporate Social Responsibility Amazon's comprehensive approach to economic development in Telangana establishes new standards for corporate social responsibility in India's technology sector. Rather than focusing solely on traditional CSR activities, the company integrates community development directly into its business strategy, creating programs that generate mutual benefits for the company and local communities. This approach addresses criticism that multinational corporations extract value from local markets without providing commensurate benefits to local communities. By creating programs that strengthen the SME ecosystem, empower women entrepreneurs, and improve gig worker conditions, Amazon demonstrates how corporate success can drive inclusive economic development. The success of these initiatives in Telangana will likely influence other technology companies to develop similar comprehensive community engagement programs. This could accelerate India's economic development by leveraging private sector resources and expertise to complement government initiatives. The model also provides insights for other developing economies seeking to attract foreign investment while ensuring that such investment contributes to broad-based economic development rather than benefiting only a narrow segment of society. Conclusion: A Blueprint for Inclusive Economic Growth Amazon's three major initiatives in Telangana—supporting SME exporters, empowering women entrepreneurs, and establishing gig worker relaxation centers—represent a comprehensive approach to inclusive economic development that could serve as a model for corporate engagement across India and other emerging markets. The success of these programs depends on continued collaboration between Amazon's leadership, Telangana's government officials, and the communities they serve. The alignment between Amazon's business interests and Telangana's economic development goals creates sustainable foundations for long-term success. As Telangana continues its transformation into a global business hub, Amazon's initiatives provide the human capital development and community infrastructure needed to ensure that economic growth benefits all segments of society. The integration of technology infrastructure, business development programs, and worker welfare initiatives demonstrates how comprehensive approaches to economic development can generate benefits that exceed the sum of their individual components. The implications extend far beyond Telangana's borders. Success in implementing these initiatives provides valuable lessons for scaling similar programs across India and internationally, potentially transforming how multinational corporations contribute to economic development in emerging markets. Amazon's commitment to Telangana establishes a new paradigm for corporate citizenship that combines business success with community development, creating sustainable value for all stakeholders involved.

NEWS

September 19, 2025

Amazon Support for SMEs, Women Entrepreneurs, and Gig Workers in Telangana

In the heart of India’s bustling tech and innovation hub, Telangana stands out as a beacon of economic progress. Recently,…

The State Bank of India Foundation has launched a groundbreaking educational initiative that promises to transform the lives of thousands of talented students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds across India. The SBI Platinum Jubilee Asha Scholarship 2025 represents one of the largest scholarship programs in the country, with a massive commitment of ₹90 crore allocated for the fiscal year 2026 to support 23,230 meritorious students. This comprehensive program offers financial assistance ranging from ₹15,000 to an unprecedented ₹20,00,000 annually, covering students from Class 9 through postgraduate levels and ensuring that financial constraints never become barriers to educational excellence. SBI Platinum Jubilee Asha Scholarship 2025: Category-wise Financial Benefits Understanding the SBI Platinum Jubilee Asha Scholarship Program Historical Context and Vision The Asha Scholarship program, initially launched in 2022, has evolved into a cornerstone initiative of the SBI Foundation's educational mission. As part of the bank's Platinum Jubilee celebrations marking 70 years of service to the nation, this scholarship embodies the institution's unwavering commitment to inclusive growth and nation-building. The program operates under the Integrated Learning Mission (ILM) framework and serves as a testament to SBI's dedication to nurturing India's brightest young minds from humble backgrounds. The scholarship initiative aligns perfectly with India's broader educational objectives and the vision of a developed India by 2047. By providing comprehensive financial support to students across multiple educational levels, the program aims to create a robust ecosystem of empowered scholars who can become catalysts for positive change in society. Comprehensive Scholarship Categories and Benefits The SBI Platinum Jubilee Asha Scholarship 2025 encompasses seven distinct categories, each tailored to specific educational levels and institutional requirements. The program's versatility ensures comprehensive coverage across India's educational spectrum: School Students (Classes 9-12) receive ₹15,000 annually, providing crucial support during formative academic years. This category focuses on maintaining educational continuity for students who demonstrate academic excellence but face financial hardships. Undergraduate Students enrolled in institutions ranked within the NIRF Top 300 or NAAC A-rated colleges can access up to ₹50,000 per year. This substantial support helps cover tuition fees, educational materials, and related academic expenses. Postgraduate Students from premier institutions receive up to ₹70,000 annually, enabling advanced academic pursuits without financial stress. This category particularly benefits students pursuing specialized professional courses. IIT Students enjoy enhanced support with scholarships up to ₹2,00,000 per year, recognizing the prestigious nature of these institutions and higher associated costs. IIM Students receive the highest support among domestic categories, with scholarships reaching ₹7,50,000 annually, reflecting the significant investment required for world-class management education. Medical Students pursuing healthcare education receive substantial support to nurture India's future medical professionals. Overseas Students from SC/ST categories studying at QS Top 200 global universities can access up to ₹20,00,000 annually, ensuring that international educational opportunities remain accessible to deserving candidates from underrepresented communities. Eligibility Framework and Requirements The scholarship program maintains rigorous yet inclusive eligibility criteria designed to identify genuinely deserving candidates. Academic Excellence forms the foundation, with applicants required to secure minimum 75% marks or 7.0 CGPA in their previous academic year. The program provides a 10% relaxation for SC/ST students, reducing the requirement to 67.50% marks or 6.30 CGPA. Financial Need Assessment considers family income thresholds carefully calibrated to identify students requiring support. School-level students must belong to families with annual incomes not exceeding ₹3,00,000, while college-level applicants can have family incomes up to ₹6,00,000 annually. Students with family incomes below ₹3,00,000 receive preferential consideration across all categories. Citizenship and Demographics requirements ensure the program serves Indian nationals exclusively. The scholarship demonstrates strong commitment to gender equality by reserving 50% of available positions for female candidates. Additionally, 50% of scholarships are allocated to SC/ST category students, promoting educational equity across social demographics. SBI Platinum Jubilee Asha Scholarship 2025: Complete Application Timeline Application Process and Timeline Step-by-Step Application Procedure The application process for the SBI Platinum Jubilee Asha Scholarship 2025 operates entirely through digital platforms, ensuring accessibility while maintaining efficiency. Interested candidates must visit the official portal at www.sbiashascholarship.co.in during the application window. The process begins with account creation on the Buddy4Study platform, which serves as the primary application gateway. Applicants must register using valid email addresses and mobile numbers, ensuring reliable communication throughout the selection process. Document preparation represents a crucial phase requiring careful attention to detail. Essential documents include academic transcripts demonstrating the required performance levels, government-issued identification cards, current year fee receipts, proof of admission to eligible institutions, bank account details for fund disbursement, family income certificates, and category certificates where applicable. Application submission involves completing comprehensive forms with personal, academic, and financial details. Applicants must upload all required documents in specified formats and review their applications thoroughly before final submission. Critical Dates and Deadlines The application timeline for the SBI Platinum Jubilee Asha Scholarship 2025 follows a structured schedule designed to ensure thorough evaluation processes. Applications opened on September 18, 2025, providing students with ample time to prepare comprehensive submissions. The application deadline of November 15, 2025 represents a firm cutoff, after which no applications will be accepted. This timeline provides nearly two months for application preparation and submission. Selection processes commence immediately following the application deadline, with initial screening based on eligibility criteria and academic merit. Document verification follows for shortlisted candidates, ensuring authenticity of submitted materials. Telephonic interviews represent the final selection stage, allowing personal interaction between candidates and selection committees. Results notification and fund disbursement typically occur within three to four months of application closure, ensuring timely support for successful candidates. Selection Methodology and Assessment Framework Multi-Stage Evaluation Process The SBI Foundation employs a comprehensive selection methodology that balances academic merit with financial need assessment. The initial screening phase automatically filters applications based on eligibility criteria, ensuring only qualified candidates advance to detailed evaluation. Academic performance evaluation considers not just numerical scores but also consistency across academic years and the rigor of educational institutions attended. Selection committees assess candidates' potential for continued excellence and their capacity to benefit meaningfully from scholarship support. Financial need assessment involves detailed review of family income documentation, asset declarations, and socioeconomic circumstances. This evaluation ensures scholarships reach students who genuinely require financial assistance to continue their education. Interview assessments provide opportunities for candidates to demonstrate their aspirations, commitment to education, and potential contributions to society. These interactions allow selection committees to evaluate candidates' character, motivation, and alignment with the scholarship's objectives. Transparency and Fair Selection The SBI Foundation maintains rigorous standards for transparency throughout the selection process. All evaluation criteria are clearly communicated to applicants, ensuring informed participation. Selection committees comprise experienced educators and SBI Foundation representatives who bring diverse perspectives to candidate assessment. Documentation requirements are standardized across all categories, preventing bias and ensuring consistent evaluation standards. The digital application platform maintains detailed logs of all submissions and interactions, providing accountability throughout the process. Impact on Indian Education and Society Addressing Educational Inequality The SBI Platinum Jubilee Asha Scholarship 2025 directly addresses critical challenges in Indian education, particularly the financial barriers that prevent talented students from pursuing higher education. With education costs rising significantly across all levels, this program provides essential relief to families struggling to support their children's academic aspirations. Rural-urban education gaps receive particular attention through the scholarship's inclusive approach. Students from remote and underserved areas gain access to quality education opportunities that would otherwise remain beyond their reach. This geographic inclusivity contributes to more balanced national development. Gender empowerment through the 50% reservation for female candidates directly supports national objectives for women's education and empowerment. By removing financial barriers specifically for girls, the program contributes to closing gender gaps in higher education and professional development. Long-term Societal Benefits The scholarship program's impact extends far beyond individual beneficiaries to create ripple effects throughout Indian society. Economic development benefits from having a more educated workforce, with scholarship recipients eventually contributing to various sectors of the economy. Social mobility increases as students from disadvantaged backgrounds gain access to quality education and subsequently better employment opportunities. This upward mobility breaks cycles of poverty and creates positive examples within communities. Innovation and entrepreneurship flourish when talented individuals receive necessary educational support. Many scholarship recipients will likely become job creators rather than job seekers, multiplying the program's economic impact. Comparison with Other National Scholarship Programs Scale and Scope Analysis The SBI Platinum Jubilee Asha Scholarship 2025 stands out significantly when compared to other national scholarship initiatives. With ₹90 crore allocated for a single year and support for 23,230 students, it represents one of the largest private sector educational initiatives in India. Coverage breadth exceeds most comparable programs by addressing multiple educational levels simultaneously, from secondary education through international postgraduate studies. This comprehensive approach ensures continuity of support throughout students' academic journeys. Financial quantum per beneficiary varies significantly based on educational level and requirements, with maximum support reaching ₹20,00,000 annually. This substantial financial commitment demonstrates serious dedication to educational excellence and accessibility. Unique Program Features Several distinctive features set the SBI Platinum Jubilee Asha Scholarship apart from competitors. Institutional flexibility allows students to choose from a wide range of eligible institutions rather than being restricted to specific universities or colleges. Renewal provisions ensure continued support throughout academic programs, provided students maintain required performance standards. This long-term commitment provides security and allows students to focus on academic excellence rather than continuous scholarship hunting. Professional network access through the SBI Foundation creates opportunities for mentorship and career guidance beyond financial support. This holistic approach to student development enhances the program's overall value proposition. Application Strategy and Success Tips Preparation Guidelines Successful application for the SBI Platinum Jubilee Asha Scholarship 2025 requires strategic preparation and attention to detail. Document organization should begin well before application deadlines, ensuring all required certificates and proofs are current and properly formatted. Academic record optimization involves maintaining consistent performance throughout academic years leading up to application. Students should focus on achieving scores well above minimum requirements to strengthen their candidacy. Financial documentation must accurately reflect family economic circumstances. Complete and authentic income proofs, asset declarations, and supporting documents strengthen applications significantly. Common Application Mistakes to Avoid Several frequent errors can undermine otherwise strong applications. Incomplete documentation represents the most common reason for application rejection, emphasizing the importance of thorough preparation. Inaccurate information in application forms can lead to disqualification during verification processes. Applicants must ensure all details match supporting documents exactly. Late submissions cannot be accommodated due to strict deadlines. Starting the application process early provides buffer time for addressing any technical issues or missing documents. Future Prospects and Program Evolution Expansion Possibilities The success of the SBI Platinum Jubilee Asha Scholarship 2025 positions it for potential expansion in subsequent years. Growing corporate social responsibility budgets and demonstrated positive outcomes could lead to increased beneficiary numbers and enhanced financial support levels. Geographic expansion might include more targeted support for students from particularly underserved regions. International components could also grow to include more countries and universities, expanding global educational opportunities for Indian students. Sector-specific initiatives may emerge to address particular skill gaps in the Indian economy. Specialized tracks for emerging technologies, healthcare, sustainability, and other national priority areas could enhance the program's strategic impact. Technology Integration Future iterations of the scholarship program will likely incorporate advanced technologies to enhance efficiency and reach. Artificial intelligence could streamline application screening and matching processes, ensuring optimal allocation of resources. Digital mentorship platforms might connect scholarship recipients with industry professionals and alumni networks. These technological enhancements would multiply the program's value beyond financial support. Outcome tracking systems will enable more sophisticated measurement of program impact, informing continuous improvement efforts and strategic adjustments. Conclusion: Transforming Educational Access in India The SBI Platinum Jubilee Asha Scholarship 2025 represents a watershed moment in Indian educational philanthropy, demonstrating how private sector initiatives can address critical social challenges at scale. With its ₹90 crore commitment and support for 23,230 students, the program will undoubtedly transform countless lives while contributing to national development objectives. The scholarship's comprehensive approach, covering multiple educational levels and providing substantial financial support, sets new standards for educational assistance programs in India. Its emphasis on gender equality, social inclusion, and academic excellence aligns perfectly with contemporary educational priorities and social justice objectives. Students eligible for this transformative opportunity should act immediately to prepare their applications, as the November 15, 2025 deadline approaches rapidly. The potential for life-changing educational opportunities through this program cannot be overstated, making it essential for qualified candidates to submit strong, complete applications within the specified timeline. The SBI Foundation's commitment to nurturing India's brightest minds from humble backgrounds through this scholarship program exemplifies corporate social responsibility at its finest. As India marches toward its vision of becoming a developed nation by 2047, initiatives like the Platinum Jubilee Asha Scholarship will undoubtedly play crucial roles in building the human capital necessary for achieving these ambitious national goals.

NEWS

September 19, 2025

SBI Asha Scholarship 2025 Apply Online

The State Bank of India Foundation has launched a groundbreaking educational initiative that promises to transform the lives of thousands…

NEWS

September 19, 2025

Royal Enfield Motorcycles Now Available on Flipkart

Royal Enfield has achieved a groundbreaking milestone in India’s motorcycle industry by becoming the first mid-size motorcycle brand to sell…

NEWS

September 18, 2025

How ‘The Ba*ds of Bollywood’ Reveals Industry’s Most Toxic Secrets

In an era where Bollywood’s glittering facade increasingly crumbles under public scrutiny, Aryan Khan’s directorial debut ‘The Ba*ds of Bollywood’** arrives…

Sport

September 18, 2025

Sachin Yadav: India’s New Javelin Sensation at Championships 2025

A new star has emerged in Indian athletics, capturing the imagination of sports enthusiasts worldwide. Sachin Yadav, the 25-year-old javelin thrower…

Why Afghanistan Cannot Drop Rahmanullah Gurbaz Despite Poor Form: Asia Cup 2025 Strategic Analysis Afghanistan wicketkeeper-batsman Rahmanullah Gurbaz finds himself at the center of intense scrutiny as his prolonged batting slump continues to haunt the team during their crucial Asia Cup 2025 campaign. Despite registering disappointing numbers throughout 2025, the 23-year-old remains indispensable to Afghanistan's playing eleven, primarily due to the team's limited bench strength and his proven track record against Sri Lanka. As Afghanistan prepares for their must-win encounter against Sri Lanka at Abu Dhabi's Sheikh Zayed Stadium, the decision to persist with Gurbaz reflects both tactical necessity and strategic hope for redemption. Afghanistan's struggling opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz facing form crisis Rahmanullah Gurbaz's 2025 Form Crisis: A Statistical Breakdown The Afghanistan opener's batting statistics paint a concerning picture throughout 2025, marking one of the most challenging phases of his international career. Gurbaz's form decline began early in the year and has persisted across multiple tournaments, raising questions about his technique and mental approach. Rahmanullah Gurbaz's 2025 Performance Crisis Across Different Tournaments Tournament-wise Performance Analysis for 2025: ILT20: Managed only 7 runs in 3 innings with a dismal average of 2.33 Champions Trophy (ODI format): Scored 16 runs across limited appearances IPL 2025 with Kolkata Knight Riders: 74 runs in 5 innings at an average of 14.8 UAE Tri-series: 98 runs in 5 matches with an average of 19.60 Asia Cup 2025: 43 runs in 2 innings at 21.50 average so far The most alarming aspect of Gurbaz's struggles is the consistency of his poor performances across different formats and conditions. Since the 2024 T20 World Cup, he has not scored a fifty in 10 T20I matches, recording five single-digit scores including two ducks during this period. This represents a significant departure from his earlier form, where he had established himself as one of Afghanistan's most reliable match-winners. Career Context and Previous Success: Despite his current struggles, Gurbaz remains one of Afghanistan's most accomplished T20I batsmen with 1,824 runs in 73 matches at a strike rate of 132.26, including one century and 10 fifties. His ability to provide explosive starts and anchor innings when needed has been crucial to Afghanistan's recent success, particularly their historic T20 World Cup semi-final run in 2024. Afghanistan's Limited Bench Strength: The Tactical Dilemma Afghanistan's decision to persist with Gurbaz stems largely from their inadequate batting reserves, which severely limits the team management's options for making changes to the playing eleven. Available Batting Alternatives: Darwish Rasooli: The middle-order batsman has 13 T20I appearances but has struggled to make a meaningful impact since his debut in 2022. Despite being earmarked as a potential solution to Afghanistan's batting depth issues, Rasooli has failed to capitalize on opportunities and remains a work in progress. Mohammad Ishaq: The reserve wicketkeeper has played only 6 T20Is with limited success, scoring 76 runs in 5 matches. At just 19 years old, Ishaq represents potential rather than proven capability, making him a risky option for high-pressure situations. The Strategic Risk of Changes: Afghanistan's coaching staff faces a critical decision-making challenge in their must-win clash against Sri Lanka. Dropping Gurbaz for inexperienced alternatives could prove catastrophic for several reasons: Loss of Experience: Gurbaz's 73 T20I matches provide invaluable experience in pressure situations Wicketkeeping Disruption: Changing the keeper can affect team balance and fielding coordination Psychological Impact: Dropping a senior player might signal panic and affect team morale Limited Upside: Neither Rasooli nor Ishaq offers guaranteed improvement in performance Jonathan Trott's Coaching Philosophy: Since taking over as head coach in 2022, Jonathan Trott has emphasized consistency in team selection and backing players through difficult phases. This approach has generally served Afghanistan well, contributing to their improved performances in major tournaments. The decision to stick with Gurbaz aligns with this philosophy of supporting experienced players through form slumps. Gurbaz's Historical Success Against Sri Lanka: The Redemption Opportunity Despite his current struggles, Gurbaz possesses an outstanding record against Sri Lanka that provides legitimate grounds for optimism ahead of their Asia Cup encounter. Statistical Dominance Against Sri Lanka: Criterion Statistics Innings 6 Runs 248 Average 41.33 Strike Rate 172.22 Boundaries 19 fours, 14 sixes Fifties 2 These numbers represent Gurbaz at his devastating best, showcasing his ability to dominate Sri Lankan bowling attacks with aggressive stroke-play and intelligent shot selection. His strike rate of 172.22 against Sri Lanka significantly exceeds his overall T20I strike rate, indicating a particular comfort level against their bowling unit. Venue-Specific Advantages: Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi has historically been a favorable venue for Gurbaz, where he has scored 231 runs in 11 T20I innings with a strike rate of 135.08, including at least one half-century. This venue familiarity, combined with his success against Sri Lankan bowling, creates a convergence of positive factors that could catalyze his return to form. Sheikh Zayed Stadium's challenging conditions for batsmen in Asia Cup Sheikh Zayed Stadium Pitch Conditions: Tactical Implications The pitch conditions at Abu Dhabi's Sheikh Zayed Stadium present both challenges and opportunities for Gurbaz's redemption quest, requiring tactical adjustments to his batting approach. Pitch Characteristics and Bowling Conditions: Slow and Low Surface: The pitch offers minimal bounce and pace, making stroke-play challenging as the match progresses Spinner-Friendly Conditions: The surface provides significant assistance to spinners, particularly in the middle and death overs Dew Factor: Evening matches often witness dew formation, which can aid batting in the second innings by making the ball skid through Boundary Dimensions: Larger boundaries compared to Sharjah require proper timing and placement rather than pure power Strategic Adjustments Required: Patience Over Aggression: Gurbaz's tendency to seek boundaries from the first ball must be curtailed on Abu Dhabi's slow surface. The pitch demands initial consolidation before acceleration. Strike Rotation Focus: Rather than attempting big shots consistently, rotating strike against Sri Lankan spinners will prevent bowlers from settling into consistent line and length. Selective Shot Selection: The absence of true bounce means mistimed shots carry greater risk. Gurbaz must identify scoring opportunities carefully rather than forcing the pace. Afghanistan's Spin-Heavy Strategy: Batting Dependencies Afghanistan's bowling strength creates additional pressure on their batting unit, making Gurbaz's contribution even more critical to team balance and match strategy. Bowling Unit Strengths: Rashid Khan: The captain and world's premier T20 leg-spinner provides match-winning capabilities Noor Ahmad: Left-arm wrist-spinner offers different angles and variations Mujeeb ur Rahman: Off-spinner with mystery variations and powerplay control Allah Ghazanfar: Promising young leg-spinner providing depth and options Batting Pressure Points: With such a formidable bowling attack, Afghanistan often needs modest totals to defend successfully. However, their batting depth remains questionable beyond the top four, creating additional responsibility for Gurbaz to provide substantial contributions at the top of the order. All-Rounder Dependencies: Afghanistan's middle-order comprises all-rounders rather than specialist batsmen: Mohammad Nabi, Azmatullah Omarzai, Karim Janat, and Rashid Khan. While this provides balance, it also means genuine batting depth is limited, making top-order contributions from Gurbaz essential for competitive totals. Technical Analysis: What Gurbaz Must Change Cricket analysts and former players have identified specific technical and tactical adjustments that could help Gurbaz rediscover his form during the crucial Sri Lanka encounter. Primary Technical Issues: Over-Aggressive Approach: Gurbaz's instinct to attack every delivery has led to frequent dismissals in 2025. His approach of dancing down the track repeatedly proves ineffective on slow UAE pitches. Shot Selection Problems: Attempting big shots against disciplined bowling on slow surfaces has resulted in mistimed attempts and caught dismissals. Pressure of Expectations: As Afghanistan's designated powerplay aggressor, Gurbaz feels compelled to score quickly, leading to rushed shot attempts and technical breakdown. Recommended Tactical Adjustments: Build Innings Foundation: Rather than seeking boundaries immediately, Gurbaz should focus on singles and doubles to establish rhythm and confidence. Target Specific Bowlers: Identify weaker Sri Lankan bowlers and capitalize on their deliveries while respecting quality spinners like Wanindu Hasaranga. Utilize Field Placements: Work gaps in the field systematically rather than attempting to clear defensive positions consistently. Mental Approach Reset: Value wicket preservation over strike rate, understanding that a settled Gurbaz poses greater threat to opponents. Sri Lanka's Bowling Strategy: Countering Gurbaz's Strengths Sri Lanka's bowling unit will likely employ specific tactics to exploit Gurbaz's current vulnerabilities while nullifying his historical success against them. Expected Sri Lankan Bowling Approach: Disciplined Line and Length: Avoid providing width or length balls that Gurbaz can capitalize on for boundaries. Spin-Heavy Attack: Deploy Wanindu Hasaranga and other spinners early to challenge Gurbaz on the slow Abu Dhabi surface. Fielding Adjustments: Set defensive fields to cut off Gurbaz's favorite scoring areas and force him into unfamiliar shot selections. Pressure Through Dot Balls: Create scoreboard pressure by restricting runs and forcing Gurbaz into risky shot attempts. Afghanistan's Qualification Scenario: The Stakes The Sri Lanka encounter represents a do-or-die situation for Afghanistan, with their Asia Cup campaign and reputation hanging in the balance. Current Group B Standings: Sri Lanka: 4 points (2 wins, unbeaten) Bangladesh: 4 points (2 wins, 1 loss, completed fixtures) Afghanistan: 2 points (1 win, 1 loss) Qualification Mathematics: Afghanistan Win: Creates a three-way tie on 4 points, where Afghanistan's superior net run rate (+2.150) would likely ensure qualification over Bangladesh (-0.270). Afghanistan Loss: Immediate elimination regardless of margin, ending their Asia Cup campaign. Sri Lanka Position: Even with a loss, Sri Lanka's strong net run rate (+1.546) makes qualification likely unless they suffer a massive defeat. This scenario places enormous pressure on Afghanistan's batting unit, making Gurbaz's contribution potentially decisive for their tournament survival. Alternative Strategies: If Gurbaz Fails Again Should Gurbaz continue struggling against Sri Lanka, Afghanistan must have contingency plans for future matches and tournaments. Short-term Adjustments: Batting Position Change: Consider moving Gurbaz down the order to reduce powerplay pressure while promoting Ibrahim Zadran or Sediqullah Atal. Role Modification: Transform Gurbaz into a finisher rather than opener, utilizing his power-hitting in death overs. Wicketkeeping Rotation: Trial Mohammad Ishaq as keeper while maintaining Gurbaz as specialist batsman. Long-term Development: Domestic Circuit Focus: Extended participation in franchise leagues to regain confidence and technique. Technical Coaching: Specialized coaching for slow surface batting and patience development. Mental Conditioning: Sports psychology support to handle pressure and expectations. The Broader Context: Afghanistan's Cricket Evolution Afghanistan's approach to the Gurbaz situation reflects their evolution from underdogs to established competitors in international cricket. Historical Perspective: Afghanistan's rise in T20 cricket has been built around individual brilliance rather than systematic depth. Players like Rashid Khan, Mohammad Nabi, and Gurbaz have carried the team through crucial moments, creating dependence on star performers. Future Development Needs: Batting Depth: Afghanistan must develop specialist batsmen to reduce over-reliance on all-rounders. Bench Strength: Improved domestic structure to produce ready alternatives for international cricket. Technical Support: Enhanced coaching infrastructure to help players adapt to different conditions. Expert Opinions and Strategic Recommendations Cricket analysts and former Afghanistan players have offered varied perspectives on the Gurbaz situation, reflecting the complexity of the decision. Arguments for Persisting with Gurbaz: Proven track record against Sri Lanka provides realistic hope Lack of viable alternatives makes change potentially counterproductive Experience and leadership qualities valuable in pressure situations Technical ability remains intact despite poor form Arguments for Making Changes: Extended poor form suggests deeper issues requiring time to resolve Fresh approach might surprise opponents and energize team Reduced pressure on bench players could yield positive results Strategic flexibility important for tournament progression Conclusion: The Calculated Risk Afghanistan's decision to persist with Rahmanullah Gurbaz represents a calculated risk based on strategic necessity rather than blind faith. The combination of limited alternatives, historical success against Sri Lanka, and favorable venue conditions creates a convergence of factors that justify the selection despite recent struggles. The success of this strategy depends on: Gurbaz's ability to implement tactical adjustments and show patience Team management's support in reducing external pressure Sri Lankan bowling approach and their success in neutralizing his strengths Pitch conditions and their evolution throughout the match Should Gurbaz rediscover his form against Sri Lanka, it could catalyze Afghanistan's Asia Cup campaign and restore confidence in their batting unit. However, continued struggles would necessitate serious evaluation of team selection philosophy and development priorities for future tournaments. The Sri Lanka encounter thus represents more than just a cricket match—it's a defining moment for both Gurbaz's career and Afghanistan's tactical approach in high-pressure situations. The outcome will likely influence selection strategies, player development focuses, and the broader evolution of Afghanistan cricket's competitive philosophy.

Sport

September 18, 2025

Why Afghanistan Cannot Drop Rahmanullah Gurbaz Despite Poor Form

Afghanistan wicketkeeper-batsman Rahmanullah Gurbaz finds himself at the center of intense scrutiny as his prolonged batting slump continues to haunt the team…