NEW DELHI: Sarfaraz Khan, a name synonymous with consistent run-scoring in domestic red-ball cricket, recently found himself in a familiar yet frustrating position. After a less-than-stellar performance, scoring just one run in Mumbai’s latest Ranji Trophy clash against Chhattisgarh, the 26-year-old middle-order batsman was once again left out of the India A squad set to face South Africa A. This omission has reignited the debate among fans and pundits about his national team prospects.
The brief and underwhelming innings occurred on a challenging, seamer-friendly pitch at the Bandra-Kurla Complex, where Sarfaraz was dismissed by Chhattisgarh’s left-arm spinner Aditya Sarwate after facing a mere six deliveries.
Following this setback, Sarfaraz chose a subtle yet powerful way to convey his message. He posted an Instagram Stories update, featuring his television screen playing the song ‘Restart’ from the movie ’12th Fail’. Poignantly, his India Test cap and Mumbai cap were visibly placed behind the screen, serving as a silent declaration of his aspirations and unwavering commitment.
This latest turn of events comes after a more encouraging display in his preceding Ranji fixture against Jammu & Kashmir in Srinagar, where he notched scores of 42 and 32, marking a solid return after a period sidelined by injury.
Mumbai captain Shardul Thakur, a staunch supporter of Khan, leaped to his defense, downplaying the significance of his exclusion from the India A squad. “Nowadays, the India A side focuses on preparing players for international cricket. Sarfaraz doesn’t need ‘A’ games to prove his international calibre. If he finds his scoring rhythm again, he can directly step into a Test series,” Thakur stated emphatically.
Thakur elaborated on Khan’s recent form and unique abilities: “He’s just returned from an injury lay-off. But before that, he scored two or three centuries in the Buchi Babu Trophy. His 42 against J&K was a good comeback, though he was unluckily run out. For him, I believe playing India A isn’t crucial. He’s a seasoned professional and consistently delivers in high-pressure situations when given the opportunity.”
Highlighting Sarfaraz’s mental fortitude, Thakur added, “He has spectacular scores of 200-250 in matches where the team was struggling early on. To produce such innings under immense pressure requires something truly special. He is one of those special players who never disappoints, regardless of his batting position; he will perform.”