Despite his exceptional performance in his debut Test series against England, Sarfaraz Khan has zero expectations for getting selected in India's squad for the upcoming Test series against Bangladesh. The middle-order star batter has clearly said that that he is keeping his expectations low. Sarfaraz's journey to the Indian Test team was a long and arduous one. Despite consistently delivering outstanding performances in domestic cricket, with an average exceeding 70 in first-class matches, he faced numerous setbacks in selection. It was only due to the absence of key players like Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, and Shreyas Iyer that he finally earned a spot in the Indian squad.
Sarfaraz Khan's Debut Impact
Sarfaraz Khan made a strong impression in his debut Test series against England, scoring twin fifties in the first match. Although he struggled in the second Test, he bounced back with a fifty in the final match. The young batter isn't sure about his place in India's squad in the upcoming two-match Test series against Bangladesh, with the first match scheduled for September 19 in Chennai and the second on September 27 in Kanpur. Despite his impressive debut, Sarfaraz's place in the Indian playing XI for the Bangladesh series is uncertain due to the return of key players like Virat Kohli and KL Rahul. The talented batsman will aim to solidify his position by delivering another strong performance in the upcoming Duleep Trophy.
Sarfaraz Khan has zero expectations for Test series against Bangladesh
Ahead of the Test series against Bangladesh, Sarfaraz Khan emphasised his commitment to focusing on his process rather than dwelling on the outcome. The 26-year-old batter stated that he is not looking ahead to the series and is instead concentrating on his own development.
"I’m not looking at the Bangladesh series. But I’ve to follow the process and be ready. This (playing matches) is very important for me. I’ve not had this level of practice in Mumbai because of the rains. You are just facing a bowling machine, side-arm throwers or sometimes bowlers in indoor facilities. But I don’t like batting indoors because the ball comes nicely onto the bat. It is not the case on turf because it will challenge you a lot. And you can only improve by practicing hard,” Sarfaraz told Indian Express.
Sarfaraz Khan further clarified that he has no expectations regarding his inclusion in the Test squad against Bangladesh. However, he expressed his readiness to contribute to the team if given the opportunity.
“I have zero expectations… But I’ll be ready if the opportunity arises. That is what I’ve been doing all along and I don’t see any reason to change that,” he added.
ALSO READ: Vinesh Phogat's first reaction after CAS shatters her dream of Paris Olympics Silver Medal
'Some get a break very soon in their career. Some have to wait': Sarfaraz Khan
Sarfaraz Khan's path to the Indian cricket team was marked by perseverance and resilience. Despite consistently outstanding performances in domestic cricket, he faced numerous rejections before finally earning a call-up. This extended wait, however, proved to be a blessing in disguise.
Reflecting on his journey, Sarfaraz Khan acknowledged that the additional time spent in domestic cricket contributed significantly to his development as a batsman. The experience allowed him to refine his skills and build mental fortitude.
“Some get a break very soon in their career. Some have to wait. In my case, I’m fortunate that it took time because I got to spend a lot of time in domestic cricket and that grind helped me become a better batsman. When I made my debut, for the first three deliveries I was nervous. But after that, I was in control. Whatever I used to do at the domestic level, I was doing the same in Test cricket. I was very clear in my mind. I wasn’t looking at the opposition or the bowler,” Sarfaraz concluded.
MORE ON SPORTS TAK:
