Former India captain Anil Kumble presented Sarfaraz Khan with his Test cap and extended well wishes for his career just ahead of the third Test against England in Rajkot.
Sarfaraz was handed his Test debut against England, taking his place in India's middle order. He seized the opportunity after Shreyas Iyer was ruled out of the squad for the final three Tests and KL Rahul didn't recover in time for the Rajkot Test.
The Indian camp was filled with celebration as Sarfaraz and Dhruv Jurel were presented with their Test caps by Kumble and Dinesh Karthik, respectively.
While presenting Sarfaraz with his Test cap, Kumble showed his pride in Sarfaraz's achievements and wished him success for a long career ahead. 26-year-old Sarfaraz became the 311th player to represent India in Test cricket.
"Really proud of you, the way you have come through. I am sure your dad and family are extremely proud of what you have achieved. I know you have done all the hard work. There were some disappointments but despite that all the runs that you've scored through the domestic season have brought you here," said Kumble.
"Well done to you. I'm sure you will have lots of wonderful memories to make. It's a start of a long career, only 310 people have played before you. All the best," Kumble added.
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During the ceremony, Sarfaraz's father, Nasushad Khan, got emotional as he watched his son receive his Test cap from Kumble.
Sarfaraz earned his Test debut against England as a reward for his consistent performances in domestic cricket. With 3,912 runs in 45 first-class matches at an impressive average of 69.85, including 14 centuries and 11 fifties, Sarfaraz's selection was well-deserved.
The 26-year-old showcased his talent while representing India A against England Lions, scoring a half-century in the first unofficial Test and a remarkable 161 in the second, helping India A clinch the series 2-0.
Although initially added to India's squad for the second Test, Sarfaraz had to wait for his opportunity as Rajat Patidar was preferred over him in Vizag. However, with regular starters Virat Kohli and Rahul absent, the Mumbai-based batter had a chance to capitalise on his opportunity.
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