Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Sarfaraz Khan has finally shattered the barriers to making his debut in the Test squad, showcasing an impressive run tally in India’s domestic first-class cricket over the past few years. The 26-year-old’s outstanding performances, including a recent knock of 161 for India A against the England Lions, have caught the attention of selectors, leading to his inclusion in the squad for the upcoming second Test of the India-England series starting on February 2.
Despite boasting impressive first-class statistics, with 3912 runs in 66 innings at an average of 69.85, Sarfaraz consistently found himself overlooked by selectors. Even with the absence of Virat Kohli in the first two matches of the series, Sarfaraz missed out on the initial selection for the first Test, which India won by 28 runs.
Sarfaraz’s long-awaited call-up finally materialized as he stepped in as a replacement for the injured KL Rahul, ending a period of anticipation for the talented batter, who has been a consistent performer in the IPL.
The announcement of Sarfaraz’s inclusion garnered congratulations from fellow cricketers and analysts, including Indian commentator Harsha Bhogle, who expressed,
Sarfaraz hasn’t just knocked on the door, he has beaten it down.
However, Harsha remains uncertain about Sarfaraz’s place in the playing eleven, raising questions about the team’s composition for the upcoming Test. The selection dilemma revolves around choices like including both Rajat Patidar and Sarfaraz, opting for a third spinner at the expense of Siraj, or selecting Washington Sundar as a straight swap for Jadeja and deciding between Patidar and Sarfaraz. The intriguing selection decisions add an extra layer of anticipation to Sarfaraz Khan’s much-awaited Test debut.
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