'My dad said I play like Javed Miandad': Sarfaraz Khan after emotional maiden Test call-up

After racking up runs in domestic cricket, Sarfaraz Khan earned his maiden Test call-up ahead of the second Test against England. After a 161-run knock for India A against England Lions, Sarfaraz had his bags packed for the Ranji Trophy clash when he was named in the Test squad. 
 

"I was getting ready to play in the Ranji Trophy and had kept my bags packed. Suddenly I got the call and got to know I was selected. I didn't believe it in the beginning." 
 

"My father was at our native place, I called him and he turned emotional too. Everyone at home was happy and became emotional," said Sarfaraz in a video posted by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on its website.
 

Sarfaraz revealed that he follows modern-day greats Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers, legendary Viv Richards, and batters who are currently performing. However, his father feels that he bats like Pakistan great Javed Miandad who has a Test average of 52.57.
 

"I like to watch Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers, Sir Vivian Richards, and even Javed Miandad because my dad has told me that I play like him. I watch Joe Root's batting also. Anyone who is succeeding, I am watching them to see how they are doing it so I can learn and apply it. I want to continue doing this, whether it's in the Ranji Trophy or playing for India in the future," Sarfaraz told JioCinema. 
 

Sarfaraz's father Naushad Khan has been the driving force of his career. He helped him transition from an attacking batter who did not put value on his wicket to scoring big hundreds.
 

"My father introduced me to cricket, and I always wondered why am I even playing. I am an attacking batsman and I used to get out sooner than others and scoring big runs was getting difficult.
 

"It was disheartening to see others succeed while I wouldn't be among the runs. But my dad always believed in hard work, and everything I have is a result of that work," said the 26-year-old.
 

Meanwhile, the Indian team management has played its cards close to the chest. In KL Rahul’s absence, it is yet to be seen whether Sarfaraz or Rajat Patidar makes his debut at Vizag.
 

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