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Mumbai batsman Sarfaraz Khan finally made his Test debut after a prolonged wait. Anil Kumble, the legendary figure, presented the 25-year-old with his maiden Test cap in the team huddle before the 3rd Test between India and England in Rajkot on February 15.
Sarfaraz’s father, Naushad Khan, was visibly emotional, unable to contain his tears as he witnessed his son’s proud moment at the Saurashtra Cricket Association in Rajkot.
Sarfaraz Khan's father kissing the Indian cap of his son.
– He worked really hard so his son could play for India, finally the day is here. What a proud day for him! ❤️🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/H4uDmSmaJy
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) February 15, 2024
India won the toss and elected to bat first, securing an early advantage on what appears to be a promising batting pitch at the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium.
The Indian camp was filled with celebration as they introduced two debutants, Sarfaraz and Jurel, while also omitting Axar Patel and KS Bharat from the lineup.
From The Huddle! 🔊
A Test cap is special! 🫡
Words of wisdom from Anil Kumble & Dinesh Karthik that Sarfaraz Khan & Dhruv Jurel will remember for a long time 🗣️ 🗣️
You Can Not Miss This!
Follow the match ▶️ https://t.co/FM0hVG5X8M#TeamIndia | #INDvENG | @dhruvjurel21 |… pic.twitter.com/mVptzhW1v7
— BCCI (@BCCI) February 15, 2024
Following impactful performances as a young batter for Royal Challengers Bangalore in the IPL, Sarfaraz Khan truly made a name for himself in the domestic circuit and Ranji Trophy at the age of 26.
Sarfaraz Khan’s remarkable record for Mumbai in the Ranji Trophy underscores his immense talent. In 45 first-class matches, he has amassed 3912 runs at an impressive average of 69.85, including 14 centuries and 11 fifties.
His performances for India A against the England Lions further highlighted his prowess, notably scoring a fifty and a commanding 161 in the unofficial Test series, contributing to India A’s 2-0 series victory.
Despite initially being overlooked for the senior team, Sarfaraz’s opportunity arose when KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja withdrew from the Vizag Test due to injury.
However, he had to bide his time as Rajat Patidar was selected ahead of him for the match. The absence of Virat Kohli and Rahul for the Rajkot Test prompted the team management to finally give Sarfaraz his chance, putting an end to his prolonged wait.
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