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Indian cricket legend Harbhajan Singh has issued some advice to Sarfaraz Khan as he prepares for his first Test selection for India's upcoming second Test against England in Vizag. Sarfaraz, who has recently been in outstanding form, was called up to the national team in the absence of Virat Kohli, who is missing the first two matches for personal reasons.
In a recent Youtube video, Harbhajan emphasized the importance of this opportunity for Sarfaraz, especially considering Kohli’s expected return for the third Test. He highlighted that Sarfaraz needs to capitalise on this chance to cement his place in the team.
"Sarfaraz Khan will have to make the most of this chance because when Virat Kohli returns, someone will have to go out. So, he cannot afford to waste this opportunity. He has worked very hard and piled up a lot of runs in domestic cricket," said Harbhajan.
Sarfaraz has been exceptional in domestic cricket, boasting a first-class average of 69.85. His recent performance includes a remarkable century against England Lions in a tour game for India A. Scoring 161 runs, he played a pivotal role in India A's victory over England Lions by an innings and 16 runs in Ahmedabad, earning the 'Player of the Match' title.
Harbhajan also expressed concerns about India's batting lineup ahead of the second Test. He noted that players like Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer have been struggling to find form. Iyer hasn't scored a Test half-century since December 2022, and Gill, now batting at No. 3, has accumulated 189 runs in 10 innings without reaching a fifty or a hundred.
"There is a lack of experience in this Indian batting lineup. The batting would have looked a lot stronger had Virat Kohli been there. The likes of Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer have also struggled to get going lately," Harbhajan added.
With India facing a setback after their defeat in Hyderabad, the team aims to make a strong comeback in the five-match Test series. The crucial encounter with England at the ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium in Vizag on February 2 will be a significant test for the Indian squad, especially for the likes of Sarfaraz Khan, who is keen to make his mark in international cricket.
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