Sarfaraz Khan has finally realized his dream of representing India as he received his maiden Test cap from former Indian spinner Anil Kumble ahead of the third Test against England at Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot on Thursday, Febuary 15.
Sarfaraz Khan was added to Test squad after KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja were ruled out of the second Test in Vizag. However, the Mumbai batter retained his place in the squad as Rahul and Shreyas Iyer have been ruled out of Rajkot. It was earlier reported that Sarfaraz Khan and Dhruv Jurel would make their Test debuts against England.
It was a emotional moment for Sarfaraz Khan's family as his father, Naushad Khan and wife, Romana Zahoor were watching on the sidelines when the youngster received first Test cap from Anil Kumble.
In a picture that went viral on social media, Sarfaraz Khan's father couldn't control his tears as his son made his dream come true to play for Team India at international stage.
In another viral picture, emotional Naushad Khan kissed his son's maiden Test cap as a symbol of pride and accomplishment after grinding hard in domestic cricket. Notably, Naushad has been Sarfaraz Khan's coach throughout his cricketing journey thus far and played a vital role in nurturing his talent.
Sarfaraz Khan has been one of the consistent performers in domestic cricket, especially in Ranji Trophy over the last few years. Despite piling up runs season after season, Khan was snubbed by BCCI selectors until he was picked in the Test squad ahead of the Vizag Test against England.
In first-class cricket, Sarfaraz Khan has amassed 3912 runs, including 14 centuries and 12 fifties, at an average of 69.85 in 66 innings.
India won the toss and opt to bat first
Meanwhile, Team India skipper won the toss decided to bat first against England in crucial third Test in Rajkot. India made four changes to their playing XI. Apart from Sarfaraz Khan, the hosts brought in debutant Dhruv Jurel, who became the 312th player to represent Team India in Test Cricket.
Ravindra Jadeja and Mohammed Siraj are backing in the playing XI, replacing Axar Patel and Mukesh Kumar. Meanwhile, Mukesh has been released from the squad and will join Bengal team ahead of final Ranji Trophy fixture against Bihar.
While, England made only change in their playing XI by dropping Shoaib Bashir for Mark Wood. Unlike last two Tests, the visitors went with two pacers for the Rajkot Test.
