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After getting shot down for a paltry 46, India’s hopes looked dashed in the Test series opener at M.Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru against New Zealand. While the hurcelean task with the bat can be considered only half done, the domestic giant, Sarfaraz Khan showed his mettle after a duck in the first innings. Sarfaraz shared a crucial 136-run partnership for the third wicket with Virat Kohli to keep India in the game. While a big knock is expected from Sarfaraz former India batter Manoj Tiwary feels that KL Rahul who is yet to bat in the second innings will be under pressure to perform if he is to retain his place in the middle order.
"You cannot remove Shubman Gill as of now because he scored a hundred in the previous series and he also has a very good record. When he recovers from his stiff neck, he will become an automatic choice. KL Rahul will be the one under most pressure," Tiwary said on Cricbuzz when asked about whether Sarfaraz has cemented his place in the playing XI for the second Test when Shubman Gill returns to the side after missing first Test due to a stiff neck.
No sudden change but fair opportunity for Sarfaraz
Tiwary feels it would not be a sudden change but a gradual one if he doesn’t score big runs. He predicts that Rahul will continue to get preference on Australian pitches but if he fails, Sarfaraz will walk into the playing XI.
"Even if Rahul doesn't score runs in the next two Tests, he will still get preference for the initial Tests in Australia. But, if he doesn't perform there as well, then Sarfaraz could come into the playing XI. I feel Sarfaraz should also get a fair opportunity. It is good that the players who are in the reserves are performing. There will definitely be pressure on some players in the playing XI," he added.
At the end of Day 3, India had 231/3 on the board, still trailing by 125 runs. Virat Kohli lost his wicket on the final ball of the day. Sarfaraz remained unbeaten for 70 off 78 balls including seven fours and three sixes.
