Sarfaraz Khan’s dream of joining the Indian Test team has come true, and it’s making headlines, especially as he steps in for the injured KL Rahul in the second Test against England in Visakhapatnam.This is a significant moment for Sarfaraz, but the question lingers – will he make his debut in this crucial match?
Rajat Patidar, who was initially called up to replace Virat Kohli, found himself on the bench in the first Test as Rahul took over Kohli’s No.4 position. Now, with Rahul sidelined due to injury, either Sarfaraz Khan or Rajat Patidar will have to fill this key slot. The decision is yet to be made, and it adds an element of suspense to the upcoming game.
AB de Villiers, the former South Africa captain, expressed his excitement about Sarfaraz Khan’s inclusion. He highlighted Sarfaraz’s outstanding record in first-class cricket, which is truly impressive.
Also Read: List of ICC Trophies won by India (2023)
In 66 innings, Sarfaraz Khan has amassed 3912 runs at an impressive average of 69.85. What’s even more remarkable is his 14 centuries and 11 fifties – a record that de Villiers deems extraordinary.
AB de Villiers, who has played alongside both Sarfaraz Khan and Rajat Patidar at Royal Challengers Bangalore in the Indian Premier League, emphasized Patidar’s decade-long presence in the Indian first-class circuit.Patidar, aged 30, has accumulated 4000 runs in 55 matches, boasting an average of 45.97, with 12 centuries and 22 half-centuries.
Sarfaraz Khan’s cricket journey has been a rollercoaster. Initially the youngest player in IPL history when picked by Royal Challengers Bangalore in 2015, he struggled to establish himself in the league. This affected his form in domestic cricket, prompting a brief move from Mumbai to Uttar Pradesh.
Also Read: Michael Vaughan,” India would not have lost under Virat Kohli’s leadership”
However, since his return to Mumbai, he has been on a remarkable scoring spree. In the 2019-20 season, he scored an impressive 928 runs, with a staggering average of 154.66, featuring three massive knocks – 301, 226, and 177.
AB de Villiers acknowledges the challenge of transitioning from first-class cricket to the international stage against England. He hopes Sarfaraz gets the opportunity, recognizing the strong performance of Rajat Patidar. The stage is set for Sarfaraz Khan, and cricket fans eagerly await to see if he will make his mark in the Indian Test team against England.
Also Read:
1) IPL 2024 Start Date, Dhoni’s Return, Schedule Rumors