Sarfaraz Khan, who made his way into the Indian team on the back of a stellar domestic record, has found himself out of the team for the last two years. He last played for India in 2024, against New Zealand, in a home Test series. The batter was hoping to get selected for the India A Test side ahead of the upcoming Test series in New Zealand but was not picked. The snub, however, has not swayed Sarfaraz from his hard work, which he continues to do in the ongoing Ranji Trophy (India's premier domestic red-ball tournament) for Mumbai.<h2>Sarfaraz opens up on India snub</h2>The batter spoke at length about not being picked for India after Day 1 (Nov 2) of Mumbai's Ranji Trophy fixture against Railways at the Brabourne Stadium. "Whenever a team comes out, I have expectations," he said. "But it's okay. It's in their (selectors') hands whether to select me or not. My job is to play cricket."Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pant-second-fitness-test-india-vs-new-zealand-test-series-update-1793617185740">Rishabh Pant set for second fitness test ahead of New Zealand departure</a>"Everyone knows that I don't have [any other] support in my life. If I have support, it's only from my father. No one has supported me in my life. But it's okay. I worked hard; I fulfilled my father's dream [by playing for India]. It's not easy to play for India, especially in this generation. And it's not like I scored once or twice and played for India. I scored 300, 200, 250 [in domestic cricket] and worked hard and played for India."Sarfaraz was in the India squad for the Sri Lanka Test series earlier this year but did not get match time. He said: "The selectors didn't say it to me directly, but when I went to the Indian team recently, I heard that they are looking at me more for Indian conditions."In three matches for Mumbai, Sarfaraz has scored 1, 154, 40, and 55 in the ongoing Ranji Trophy match.<h2>IND A vs NZ A</h2>India is scheduled to play three four-day matches before the New Zealand Tests. Two of them have been completed, and the third four-day match will start on Saturday (Nov 7). Sarfaraz was omitted from the side led by Dhruv Jurel, which also included Sai Sudharsan and Devdutt Padikkal - the players he is competing with for a spot in the India squad.

Despite missing out on the India A squad, batter Sarfaraz Khan remains focused on performing for Mumbai in the Ranji Trophy, trusting his domestic grind while acknowledging team selection is out of his hands.

Sarfaraz Khan, who made his way into the Indian team on the back of a stellar domestic record, has found himself out of the team for the last two years. He last played for India in 2024, against New Zealand, in a home Test series. The batter was hoping to get selected for the India A Test side ahead of the upcoming Test series in New Zealand but was not picked. The snub, however, has not swayed Sarfaraz from his hard work, which he continues to do in the ongoing Ranji Trophy (India's premier domestic red-ball tournament) for Mumbai. Sarfaraz opens up on India snub The batter spoke at length about not being picked for India after Day 1 (Nov 2) of Mumbai's Ranji Trophy fixture against Railways at the Brabourne Stadium. "Whenever a team comes out, I have expectations," he said. "But it's okay. It's in their (selectors') hands whether to select me or not. My job is to play cricket." Also Read - Rishabh Pant set for second fitness test ahead of New Zealand departure "Everyone knows that I don't have [any other] support in my life. If I have support, it's only from my father. No one has supported me in my life. But it's okay. I worked hard; I fulfilled my father's dream [by playing for India]. It's not easy to play for India, especially in this generation. And it's not like I scored once or twice and played for India. I scored 300, 200, 250 [in domestic cricket] and worked hard and played for India." Sarfaraz was in the India squad for the Sri Lanka Test series earlier this year but did not get match time. He said: "The selectors didn't say it to me directly, but when I went to the Indian team recently, I heard that they are looking at me more for Indian conditions." In three matches for Mumbai, Sarfaraz has scored 1, 154, 40, and 55 in the ongoing Ranji Trophy match. IND A vs NZ A India is scheduled to play three four-day matches before the New Zealand Tests. Two of them have been completed, and the third four-day match will start on Saturday (Nov 7). Sarfaraz was omitted from the side led by Dhruv Jurel, which also included Sai Sudharsan and Devdutt Padikkal - the players he is competing with for a spot in the India squad.

Despite missing out on the India A squad, batter Sarfaraz Khan remains focused on performing for Mumbai in the Ranji Trophy, trusting his domestic grind while acknowledging team selection is out of his hands.

'They are looking at me more for Indian conditions': Sarfaraz remains hopeful despite continous India snub

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has picked Mumbai batter Sarfaraz Khan as the replacement for injured Sai Sudharsan for the two-Test series against Sri Lanka.Sudharsan, who suffered a stress fracture in his big toe during India A’s Sri Lanka tour in Jul, has been recovering at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru but has not regained full fitness in time for the series.&nbsp;“Sai Sudharsan has been ruled out of the Test series against Sri Lanka,” BCCI said in a statement. “The left-handed batter, who has been at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (COE) in Bengaluru, has made significant progress in his recovery from the right toe stress reaction and is recovering well. The BCCI Medical Team is closely monitoring his progress.”&nbsp;“The Men’s Selection Committee has named Sarfaraz Khan as a replacement for Sai Sudharsan for the two-match Test series against Sri Lanka. He will link up with the Indian squad in Colombo before the team travels to Galle for the first Test match, starting August 15, 2026,” it added.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/those-who-play-will-flourish-pm-modi-interacts-with-india-s-cwg-medallists-1786286688262">‘Those who play, will flourish’: PM Modi interacts with India’s CWG medallists</a>&nbsp;Sarfaraz last played for India during the three-Test series against New Zealand at home in 2024, which India lost 0-3. He was one of India’s top performers in the series and scored his maiden Test century in the second match.&nbsp;However, he did not get another opportunity after that and remained on the bench throughout India’s five-Test series in Australia from Dec 2024 to Jan 2025 and was later dropped from the squad.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-a-rehab-centre-vvs-laxman-defends-bcci-coe-amid-injury-concerns-1786274226587">‘Not a rehab centre’: VVS Laxman defends BCCI CoE amid injury concerns</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;In domestic cricket, the 28-year-old has been a consistent performer for several years. In 92 First-Class innings, Sarfaraz has scored 5,114 runs at an average of 64.73, including 17 centuries and 16 fifties.&nbsp;Sheikh Rasheed were also considered for the series, but Sarfaraz’s strong record against spin is likely to have worked in his favour with the selectors.

Sarfaraz Khan has returned to India’s Test squad for the first time since the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, replacing the injured Sai Sudharsan for the upcoming two-Test series against Sri Lanka.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has picked Mumbai batter Sarfaraz Khan as the replacement for injured Sai Sudharsan for the two-Test series against Sri Lanka. Sudharsan, who suffered a stress fracture in his big toe during India A’s Sri Lanka tour in Jul, has been recovering at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru but has not regained full fitness in time for the series. “Sai Sudharsan has been ruled out of the Test series against Sri Lanka,” BCCI said in a statement. “The left-handed batter, who has been at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (COE) in Bengaluru, has made significant progress in his recovery from the right toe stress reaction and is recovering well. The BCCI Medical Team is closely monitoring his progress.” “The Men’s Selection Committee has named Sarfaraz Khan as a replacement for Sai Sudharsan for the two-match Test series against Sri Lanka. He will link up with the Indian squad in Colombo before the team travels to Galle for the first Test match, starting August 15, 2026,” it added. Also Read - ‘Those who play, will flourish’: PM Modi interacts with India’s CWG medallists Sarfaraz last played for India during the three-Test series against New Zealand at home in 2024, which India lost 0-3. He was one of India’s top performers in the series and scored his maiden Test century in the second match. However, he did not get another opportunity after that and remained on the bench throughout India’s five-Test series in Australia from Dec 2024 to Jan 2025 and was later dropped from the squad. Also Read - ‘Not a rehab centre’: VVS Laxman defends BCCI CoE amid injury concerns In domestic cricket, the 28-year-old has been a consistent performer for several years. In 92 First-Class innings, Sarfaraz has scored 5,114 runs at an average of 64.73, including 17 centuries and 16 fifties. Sheikh Rasheed were also considered for the series, but Sarfaraz’s strong record against spin is likely to have worked in his favour with the selectors.

Sarfaraz Khan has returned to India’s Test squad for the first time since the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, replacing the injured Sai Sudharsan for the upcoming two-Test series against Sri Lanka.

IND vs SL: Sarfaraz Khan returns to India Test squad, replaces injured Sai Sudharsan

One man’s loss is another man’s gain. Sai Sudharsan’s niggle injury forced him out of the two-match Test series against Sri Lanka, starting next week, which also opened doors for domestic giant Sarfaraz Khan to make his anticipated comeback to the Test team. Having last featured for India during the New Zealand Test at the Wankhede in 2024, Sarfaraz is in line to replace Sudharsan in the Test squad. Shaik Rasheed is another name that is emerging as Sai’s potential replacement for the away tour. &nbsp;Sudharsan was undergoing rehabilitation at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru for a foot injury, with the team management being optimistic about his availability for the series opener. That, however, couldn’t happen, as Sudharsan failed to recover in time for the first Test starting August 15 in Galle.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/amid-injury-crisis-bcci-secretary-set-for-crucial-talks-with-coe-head-vvs-laxman-1786208617473">Amid injury crisis, BCCI secretary set for crucial talks with COE head VVS Laxman</a> &nbsp;A Times of India (TOI) report suggests either Rasheed or Sarfaraz will be drafted in as his replacement. While Sarfaraz is already training at the CoE, Rasheed has also been asked to report to the Bengaluru facility on Sunday. &nbsp;Meanwhile, Rasheed was part of the India A tour of Sri Lanka last month, scoring 45, 63 and 20 in three outings. The youngster has been on the selectors’ radar for a while and was also scheduled to be part of a specialist batter camp at the CoE in the coming weeks.&nbsp;<h2>Lack of Batters worries Management</h2>With Test captain Shubman Gill also recovering from an injury and Sai Sudharsan out for the first Test with an injury, the Indian team management is seemingly worried about the lack of specialised batters in the camp for the Test series. They have also reportedly conveyed their concerns to the selection committee.&nbsp; &nbsp;Sarfaraz, who recently posted a cryptic message on his social handle Instagram amid his selection snubs, has also been advised to bat higher up the order in the domestic circuit as he remains part of the selectors’ plans.&nbsp; &nbsp;On the other hand, Ruturaj Gaikwad also remains in the fray for a shock Test call-up.&nbsp;

Sai Sudharsan's foot injury has ruled him out of the first Sri Lanka Test. Sarfaraz Khan and Shaik Rasheed are in line to replace him in the Indian squad.

One man’s loss is another man’s gain. Sai Sudharsan’s niggle injury forced him out of the two-match Test series against Sri Lanka, starting next week, which also opened doors for domestic giant Sarfaraz Khan to make his anticipated comeback to the Test team. Having last featured for India during the New Zealand Test at the Wankhede in 2024, Sarfaraz is in line to replace Sudharsan in the Test squad. Shaik Rasheed is another name that is emerging as Sai’s potential replacement for the away tour. Sudharsan was undergoing rehabilitation at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru for a foot injury, with the team management being optimistic about his availability for the series opener. That, however, couldn’t happen, as Sudharsan failed to recover in time for the first Test starting August 15 in Galle. Also read| Amid injury crisis, BCCI secretary set for crucial talks with COE head VVS Laxman A Times of India (TOI) report suggests either Rasheed or Sarfaraz will be drafted in as his replacement. While Sarfaraz is already training at the CoE, Rasheed has also been asked to report to the Bengaluru facility on Sunday. Meanwhile, Rasheed was part of the India A tour of Sri Lanka last month, scoring 45, 63 and 20 in three outings. The youngster has been on the selectors’ radar for a while and was also scheduled to be part of a specialist batter camp at the CoE in the coming weeks. Lack of Batters worries Management With Test captain Shubman Gill also recovering from an injury and Sai Sudharsan out for the first Test with an injury, the Indian team management is seemingly worried about the lack of specialised batters in the camp for the Test series. They have also reportedly conveyed their concerns to the selection committee. Sarfaraz, who recently posted a cryptic message on his social handle Instagram amid his selection snubs, has also been advised to bat higher up the order in the domestic circuit as he remains part of the selectors’ plans. On the other hand, Ruturaj Gaikwad also remains in the fray for a shock Test call-up.

Sai Sudharsan's foot injury has ruled him out of the first Sri Lanka Test. Sarfaraz Khan and Shaik Rasheed are in line to replace him in the Indian squad.

IND vs SL 2026: Sarfaraz Khan front-runner to replace injured Sai Sudharsan – Report

Star India batter Sarfaraz Khan has drawn attention with a cryptic social media post as he continues to wait for a return to the national team after nearly two years out of the senior XI. Despite averaging 64.73 in 62 first-class matches, Sarfaraz Khan has played only six Tests for India, with his last appearance coming during the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, where India lost the series 4-1. In his last Test appearance, Sarfaraz scored 0 and four before being left out of the playing XI.&nbsp;&nbsp;On Thursday, Sarfaraz shared a picture from the 2019 Telugu film Jersey on social media. He captioned the post: “I may not fit in, but I will fight with everything &nbsp;I have got.”

Sarfaraz on Friday posted a photo from the 2019 Telugu film ‘Jersey’

The batter had made a strong impact during India’s home Test series against New Zealand, scoring 150 in the first Test. However, India went on to suffer a historic 0-3 series whitewash. Sarfaraz struggled in the remaining matches, with his highest score being just 11.&nbsp;Despite staying around the Indian team setup, Sarfaraz has not returned to the senior side since the 1-4 defeat to Australia in the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy.&nbsp;His absence became a talking point again when he was not selected for India’s squad for the Test series against South Africa. India eventually lost that two-match series 0-2.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sri-lanka-cricket-announces-free-entry-for-fans-during-india-test-series-1786111447312">Sri Lanka Cricket announces free entry for fans during India Test series</a>&nbsp;India are currently playing a three-day warm-up match in Colombo as they prepare for a two-Test series against Sri Lanka. The first Test will begin on Saturday (Aug 15) in Galle, while the second Test will be played at the Sinhalese Sports Club in Colombo.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ajinkya-rahane-opens-up-on-joining-etpl-after-india-retirement-1786105060569">Ajinkya Rahane opens up on joining ETPL after India retirement</a>&nbsp;The series will mark India’s first Test tour of Sri Lanka in more than a decade. The last time India played a Test series in Sri Lanka, they completed a 3-0 clean sweep in 2017.&nbsp;Sarfaraz was last seen in action during IPL 2026, when he played for Chennai Super Kings. He scored 161 runs in seven matches at an average of 23 and a strike rate of 169.47.&nbsp;The batter will next represent West Zone in the upcoming Duleep Trophy.

Sarfaraz Khan's cryptic social media post has gone viral after he was left out of India's Test squad, with the batter still waiting for a regular place in the national team despite his strong first-class record.

Star India batter Sarfaraz Khan has drawn attention with a cryptic social media post as he continues to wait for a return to the national team after nearly two years out of the senior XI. Despite averaging 64.73 in 62 first-class matches, Sarfaraz Khan has played only six Tests for India, with his last appearance coming during the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, where India lost the series 4-1. In his last Test appearance, Sarfaraz scored 0 and four before being left out of the playing XI. On Thursday, Sarfaraz shared a picture from the 2019 Telugu film Jersey on social media. He captioned the post: “I may not fit in, but I will fight with everything I have got.”

Sarfaraz Khan's cryptic social media post has gone viral after he was left out of India's Test squad, with the batter still waiting for a regular place in the national team despite his strong first-class record.

‘I’ll fight with everything’: Sarfaraz Khan’s cryptic message after India Test snub

BCCI has released the annual contract list for the period October 1, 2025 to September 30, 2026. The board now has only three categories - A, B & C. The number of players in contract has also been reduced from 34 to 30 with Shami, Mukesh, Patidar, and Sarfaraz out.

BCCI has released the annual contract list for the period October 1, 2025 to September 30, 2026. The board now has only three categories - A, B &amp; C. The number of players in contract has also been reduced from 34 to 30 with Shami, Mukesh, Patidar, and Sarfaraz out.

BCCI annual contract: Meet players no longer in central contract list

Punjab and Mumbai played one of the most dramatic matches in the Vijay Hazare Trophy history. Chasing a modest 216-run target, Mumbai botched the chase and fell short by 1 run on Thursday (Jan 8) in Jaipur. Mumbai were bowled out for 215 in just 26.2 overs despite being 139/2 in 14.3 overs at one stage. Punjab's one-run victory margin is the joint-lowest in the Vijay Hazare Trophy and first such instance since 2021. The 216-run target is also the fouth lowest total defended by a team in the tournament history.<h2>Mumbai botch easy chase vs Punjab</h2>Chasing 216, Mumbai had a brilliant start as Musheer Khan and Angkrish Raghuvanshi added 57 runs for the first wicket in 8.1 overs before Khan was dimissed. Raghuvanshi was next to go 33 runs later before Sarfaraz began his carnage. His 15-ball 50 - the fastest in Lisa A cricket for India - put Mumbai at 139/2 in 14.3 overs. Needing just 77 runs in nearly 35 overs, Mumbai suffered a dramatic collapse.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-starc-to-stokes-meet-top-5-bowlers-with-most-wickets-in-ashes-2025-26-1767873278653">From Starc to Stokes: Meet top 5 bowlers with most wickets in Ashes 2025-26</a>Skipper Shreyas Iyer, however, tried to hold one end with his 34-ball 45 and took his team to 201 before getting out but it was not enough in the end. Mumbai lost as four wickets for just 14 runs and were dismissed for 215 runs in 26.2 overs. Gurnoor Brar and Mayank Markende starred for Punjab with each bowler taking a four-wicket haul.<h2>Sarfaraz shows fiery batting before IPL 2026</h2>Out of favour with BCCI, Sarfaraz was recently picked up at the IPL 2026 auction by Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for INR 75 lakh. He showed that he can bat aggresively druing his innings of 20-ball 62 which included seven four and five sixes. He also smashed India T20I opener Abhishek Sharma for 30 runs in an over during his fiery innings but alas, failed to make his team win.Over of mayhem: Sarfaraz samshed Punjab captain Abhishek Sharma for 30 runs in the 10th over (6, 4, 6, 4, 6, 4).Record Broken: He eclipsed the previous Indian record of fastest List A fifty of 16 balls (held by Atit Sheth and Abhijit Kale).Final Stat: Sarfaraz finished with 62 off 20 balls (7 fours, 5 sixes) before being trapped LBW by Mayank Markande who took 4/31.The dramatic Collapse: Mumbai were in commond at 201/5 chasing 217, but lost their final 5 wickets for just 14 runs to finish at 215 all out in 26.2 overs.

Mumbai were bowled out for 215 in just 26.2 overs druing chase of 216 despite being 139/2 in 14.3 overs at one stage.  Sarfaraz finished with 62 off 20 balls (7 fours, 5 sixes) before being trapped LBW by Mayank Markande who took 4/31.

Punjab and Mumbai played one of the most dramatic matches in the Vijay Hazare Trophy history. Chasing a modest 216-run target, Mumbai botched the chase and fell short by 1 run on Thursday (Jan 8) in Jaipur. Mumbai were bowled out for 215 in just 26.2 overs despite being 139/2 in 14.3 overs at one stage. Punjab's one-run victory margin is the joint-lowest in the Vijay Hazare Trophy and first such instance since 2021. The 216-run target is also the fouth lowest total defended by a team in the tournament history. Mumbai botch easy chase vs Punjab Chasing 216, Mumbai had a brilliant start as Musheer Khan and Angkrish Raghuvanshi added 57 runs for the first wicket in 8.1 overs before Khan was dimissed. Raghuvanshi was next to go 33 runs later before Sarfaraz began his carnage. His 15-ball 50 - the fastest in Lisa A cricket for India - put Mumbai at 139/2 in 14.3 overs. Needing just 77 runs in nearly 35 overs, Mumbai suffered a dramatic collapse. Also Read - From Starc to Stokes: Meet top 5 bowlers with most wickets in Ashes 2025-26 Skipper Shreyas Iyer, however, tried to hold one end with his 34-ball 45 and took his team to 201 before getting out but it was not enough in the end. Mumbai lost as four wickets for just 14 runs and were dismissed for 215 runs in 26.2 overs. Gurnoor Brar and Mayank Markende starred for Punjab with each bowler taking a four-wicket haul. Sarfaraz shows fiery batting before IPL 2026 Out of favour with BCCI, Sarfaraz was recently picked up at the IPL 2026 auction by Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for INR 75 lakh. He showed that he can bat aggresively druing his innings of 20-ball 62 which included seven four and five sixes. He also smashed India T20I opener Abhishek Sharma for 30 runs in an over during his fiery innings but alas, failed to make his team win. Over of mayhem: Sarfaraz samshed Punjab captain Abhishek Sharma for 30 runs in the 10th over (6, 4, 6, 4, 6, 4). Record Broken: He eclipsed the previous Indian record of fastest List A fifty of 16 balls (held by Atit Sheth and Abhijit Kale). Final Stat: Sarfaraz finished with 62 off 20 balls (7 fours, 5 sixes) before being trapped LBW by Mayank Markande who took 4/31. The dramatic Collapse: Mumbai were in commond at 201/5 chasing 217, but lost their final 5 wickets for just 14 runs to finish at 215 all out in 26.2 overs.

Mumbai were bowled out for 215 in just 26.2 overs druing chase of 216 despite being 139/2 in 14.3 overs at one stage. &nbsp;Sarfaraz finished with 62 off 20 balls (7 fours, 5 sixes) before being trapped LBW by Mayank Markande who took 4/31.

Vijay Hazare Trophy: How did they lose? Sarfaraz Khan’s historic 15-ball fifty in vain as Mumbai botch chase vs Punjab in 1 run thriller

Domestic giant Sarfaraz Khan has expressed his gratitude to IPL franchise Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for making a late bid for him at the recently concluded mini auction in Abu Dhabi. Priced at INR 75 lakh, Sarfaraz failed to attract any bids in the first round but found his new IPL home in the five-time winners CSK as their sixth buy of the evening. Known for scoring heaps of runs in red-ball cricket, Sarfaraz rocked the ongoing Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) with his quick-fire 22-ball 73 just ahead of the auction.&nbsp;Replying to a post by a CSK fan page named ‘WhistlePodu Army – CSK Fan Club’, Sarfaraz wrote, ‘Thank you so much CSK, for giving me new life.’

Sarfaraz Khan thanks CSK for auction bid

The right-handed batter played for a couple of franchises earlier, including Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Delhi Capitals, and ahead of the 2026 auction, was expected to make some noise at the auction table, given his recent T20 form. At the ongoing SMAT, the 27-year-old has already whacked 256 runs in six outings, averaging 64 and striking at 182.85.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-auction-here-s-all-you-need-to-know-about-updated-punjab-kings-squad-purchases-and-other-key-details-1765969816558">IPL 2026 Auction: Here's all you need to know about updated Punjab Kings squad, purchases and other key details</a> &nbsp;Meanwhile, CSK headed into the mini-auction with the second biggest purse after the Kolkata Knight Riders. Although they failed to bag Cameron Green, for whom they fought till the end with the KKR, who purchased him for a record $2.76mn (INR 25.20 crore), CSK splurged INR 14.20 crore each on the uncapped Indian rookies, Prashant Veer and Kartik Sharma. They also strengthened their bowling after picking up New Zealand seamer Matt Henry and Indian leggie Rahul Chahar. &nbsp;Not only this, but ahead of this auction, Chennai also pulled off a master trade, bringing in keeper-batter Sanju Samson (from Rajasthan Royals for INR 18 crore) for their veteran Ravindra Jadeja and English all-rounder Sam Curran. &nbsp;The former five-time champions have completed their quota of 25 players ahead of the 19th edition, starting on March 26 next year. IPL 2026 will conclude on May 31.

Sarfaraz Khan last played in the IPL in 2023 for the Delhi Capitals and will now take the field for the five-time champions, Chennai Super Kings.

Domestic giant Sarfaraz Khan has expressed his gratitude to IPL franchise Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for making a late bid for him at the recently concluded mini auction in Abu Dhabi. Priced at INR 75 lakh, Sarfaraz failed to attract any bids in the first round but found his new IPL home in the five-time winners CSK as their sixth buy of the evening. Known for scoring heaps of runs in red-ball cricket, Sarfaraz rocked the ongoing Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) with his quick-fire 22-ball 73 just ahead of the auction. Replying to a post by a CSK fan page named ‘WhistlePodu Army – CSK Fan Club’, Sarfaraz wrote, ‘Thank you so much CSK, for giving me new life.’

Sarfaraz Khan last played in the IPL in 2023 for the Delhi Capitals and will now take the field for the five-time champions, Chennai Super Kings.

‘Thanks CSK for giving me new life,’ Sarfaraz Khan expresses gratitude after finding new IPL home

India batter Sarfaraz Khan's curious case of omission from India A squad to face against South Africa before the upcoming home Test series has picked up the chatter. The batter had made his Test debut Rohit Sharma in February 2024 after years of scoring runs in domestic circuit. He last played against New Zealand in the three-Test home series late last. India had lost the series 0-3 and Sarfaraz, after scoring a brilliant 150 in the first Test, could not perform well. He recently played for Mumbai in the Ranji Trophy against Jammu &amp; Kashmir, scoring 42 and 32 runs in two innings, respectively.<h2>Sarfaraz's journey in and out of Indian Test team</h2>After the home Test series against New Zealand, Sarfaraz was elected in India's shadow team ahead of Test series in Australia. He played one ODI against Australia's PM XI but score only one runs at number 8. Dealing with fitness issue, he worked hard to be fitter but failed to get a place in India squad for England Test tour. BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar had said at the time that Karun Nair has leapfrogged Sarfaraz.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/why-pcb-sacked-rizwan-as-odi-skipper-ex-pak-cricketer-claims-reason-is-religious-1761046882513">Why PCB sacked Rizwan as ODI skipper? Ex-Pak keeper claims reason is religious</a>After Karun Nair was dropped post his not so good England tour, it was expected that Sarfaraz will be picked up. The Mumbai batter, however, could not make it to the West Indies home series squad because of an injury as informed by Agarkar. Now, despite being fit and performing reasonably well, Sarfaraz still couldn't find a place even in India A team.<h2>Sarfaraz's performance in domestic and Test cricket</h2>In the six Tests played so far, Sarfaraz has scored 371 runs at an average of 37 with three fifties and one hundred in 11 innings including a best of 150. As for first class cricket, Sarfaraz has scored 4,759 runs in 56 matches at an astonishing average of 65 with 16 hundreds, 15 fifties and a best of 301 not out.

He recently played for Mumbai in the Ranji Trophy against Jammu & Kashmir, scoring 42 and 32 runs in two innings, respectively. Despite being fit and performing reasonably well, Sarfaraz still couldn't find a place even in India A team.

India batter Sarfaraz Khan's curious case of omission from India A squad to face against South Africa before the upcoming home Test series has picked up the chatter. The batter had made his Test debut Rohit Sharma in February 2024 after years of scoring runs in domestic circuit. He last played against New Zealand in the three-Test home series late last. India had lost the series 0-3 and Sarfaraz, after scoring a brilliant 150 in the first Test, could not perform well. He recently played for Mumbai in the Ranji Trophy against Jammu & Kashmir, scoring 42 and 32 runs in two innings, respectively. Sarfaraz's journey in and out of Indian Test team After the home Test series against New Zealand, Sarfaraz was elected in India's shadow team ahead of Test series in Australia. He played one ODI against Australia's PM XI but score only one runs at number 8. Dealing with fitness issue, he worked hard to be fitter but failed to get a place in India squad for England Test tour. BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar had said at the time that Karun Nair has leapfrogged Sarfaraz. Also Read - Why PCB sacked Rizwan as ODI skipper? Ex-Pak keeper claims reason is religious After Karun Nair was dropped post his not so good England tour, it was expected that Sarfaraz will be picked up. The Mumbai batter, however, could not make it to the West Indies home series squad because of an injury as informed by Agarkar. Now, despite being fit and performing reasonably well, Sarfaraz still couldn't find a place even in India A team. Sarfaraz's performance in domestic and Test cricket In the six Tests played so far, Sarfaraz has scored 371 runs at an average of 37 with three fifties and one hundred in 11 innings including a best of 150. As for first class cricket, Sarfaraz has scored 4,759 runs in 56 matches at an astonishing average of 65 with 16 hundreds, 15 fifties and a best of 301 not out.

He recently played for Mumbai in the Ranji Trophy against Jammu &amp; Kashmir, scoring 42 and 32 runs in two innings, respectively. Despite being fit and performing reasonably well, Sarfaraz still couldn't find a place even in India A team.

Where is Sarfaraz Khan? Mumbai's batter looks out of favour with BCCI after latest snub

India’s premier domestic red-ball competition raised its curtain for the 2025-26 season as the Ranji Trophy started with 32 teams on Wednesday (Oct 15). While the competition serves as a platform for players to come into the spotlight for a place in the Indian team, that was certainly the case for Mumbai’s renowned pair of Musheer Khan and Sarfaraz Khan on Wednesday. Both brothers were part of a mistaken identity by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) scorers, as it left everyone in a state of surprise.<h2>Sarfaraz, Musheer part of chaos</h2>On Wednesday, on the opening day against Jammu and Kashmir, Mumbai started their innings on a poor note after they lost Musheer Khan for a three-ball duck. However, it was the BCCI that took the centre stage once Auqib Nabi scalped the batter. The BCCI scoreboard on it scoreboard read, Sarfaraz Khan was dismissed for a duck and came out to bat. However, that was not the case because Musheer was dismissed for a duck rather than Sarfaraz.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/5-players-with-most-runs-in-women-s-odi-world-cup-history-debbie-hockley-mithali-raj-janette-brittin-charlotte-edwards-suzie-bates-1757606297874">From Mithali Raj to Janette Brittin, 5 players with most runs in Women's ODI World Cup history</a>&nbsp;The mistake was later rectified as Sarfaraz came out to bat later in the innings. However, a mistaken identity was on the centre stage, which for a brief period left everyone guessing since the match was not broadcast on television.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-women-s-odi-world-cup-2025-all-you-need-to-know-about-indian-women-s-team-schedule-squad-fixtures-and-more-1758556378933">Women's ODI World Cup 2025: All you need to know about Indian women's team schedule, squad, fixtures and more</a><h2>Sarfaraz buying for a spot</h2>Heading into the Ranji Trophy contest, Sarfaraz is hoping for a spot in the Indian team, having missed out on the England tour and then the home series against the West Indies. The latest Ranji Trophy campaign could be the launch pad for Sarfaraz to make a way back into the Indian team. However, he will face stern competition from the likes of Shubman Gill, Sai Sudharsan and others.&nbsp;At Stumps on Day 1, Mumbai closed at 228/4 in 57 overs before bad lights took centre stage. Sarfaraz scored 42 while Siddhesh Lad was unbeaten on 86 and Shams Mulani was playing on 23. Ayush Mhatre (28) and Ajinkya Rahane (27) also got starts.

On Wednesday, on the opening day against Jammu and Kashmir, Mumbai started their innings on a poor note after they lost Musheer Khan for a three-ball duck. However, it was the BCCI that took the centre stage once Auqib Nabi scalped the batter. 

India’s premier domestic red-ball competition raised its curtain for the 2025-26 season as the Ranji Trophy started with 32 teams on Wednesday (Oct 15). While the competition serves as a platform for players to come into the spotlight for a place in the Indian team, that was certainly the case for Mumbai’s renowned pair of Musheer Khan and Sarfaraz Khan on Wednesday. Both brothers were part of a mistaken identity by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) scorers, as it left everyone in a state of surprise. Sarfaraz, Musheer part of chaos On Wednesday, on the opening day against Jammu and Kashmir, Mumbai started their innings on a poor note after they lost Musheer Khan for a three-ball duck. However, it was the BCCI that took the centre stage once Auqib Nabi scalped the batter. The BCCI scoreboard on it scoreboard read, Sarfaraz Khan was dismissed for a duck and came out to bat. However, that was not the case because Musheer was dismissed for a duck rather than Sarfaraz. ALSO READ | From Mithali Raj to Janette Brittin, 5 players with most runs in Women's ODI World Cup history The mistake was later rectified as Sarfaraz came out to bat later in the innings. However, a mistaken identity was on the centre stage, which for a brief period left everyone guessing since the match was not broadcast on television. ALSO READ | Women's ODI World Cup 2025: All you need to know about Indian women's team schedule, squad, fixtures and more Sarfaraz buying for a spot Heading into the Ranji Trophy contest, Sarfaraz is hoping for a spot in the Indian team, having missed out on the England tour and then the home series against the West Indies. The latest Ranji Trophy campaign could be the launch pad for Sarfaraz to make a way back into the Indian team. However, he will face stern competition from the likes of Shubman Gill, Sai Sudharsan and others. At Stumps on Day 1, Mumbai closed at 228/4 in 57 overs before bad lights took centre stage. Sarfaraz scored 42 while Siddhesh Lad was unbeaten on 86 and Shams Mulani was playing on 23. Ayush Mhatre (28) and Ajinkya Rahane (27) also got starts.

On Wednesday, on the opening day against Jammu and Kashmir, Mumbai started their innings on a poor note after they lost Musheer Khan for a three-ball duck. However, it was the BCCI that took the centre stage once Auqib Nabi scalped the batter.&nbsp;

Ranji Trophy 2025-26: BCCI blunder on Khan brothers leaves fans guessing, mistaken identity takes centre stage

India batter Sarafaz Khan has recently grabbed headlines, not for his cricket heroics but for his incredible fitness journey. After being left out of the Indian squad for the Anderson-Tendulkar trophy, Sarfaraz prioritised his health and fitness. In a photo shared on his Instagram story, Sarfaraz wrote that he has lost 17 kg and looks completely different from what we have seen him on the pitch playing for Mumbai and India. Although he missed out on the England Tests, Sarfaraz did travel to the United Kingdom (UK) with the India A team, where he scored an impressive 92 in the first unofficial Test. However, he was dropped from the next match to make room for KL Rahul in the playing XI.&nbsp;The 27-year-old has been on a weight loss journey for the past few months and his father, Naushad Khan, discussed the same during an interview with the Hindustan Times in May this year.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/who-are-the-three-indian-captains-apart-from-kohli-dhoni-and-rohit-to-lead-in-all-three-formats-1753009558850">Who are three Indian captains apart from Kohli, Dhoni and Rohit to lead in all three formats?</a>&nbsp;"We have controlled our diet a lot. We have stopped eating roti, rice, etc. We haven't eaten roti or rice at home for 1 to 1.5 months. We eat broccoli, carrots, cucumber, salad, and green vegetable salad. But the main thing is that we have stopped eating roti and rice. We have stopped eating sugar. We have stopped eating maida (refined wheat flour) and bakery items," Naushad was quoted as saying to the Hindustan Times.<h2>What is the net worth of Sarfaraz Khan?</h2>While working hard on his game and fitness, Sarfaraz is also doing well financially. His estimated net worth stands at $2 million (around ₹16.6 crore), thanks to BCCI contracts, domestic match fees and media partnerships. Though he went unsold in the last IPL auction, Sarfaraz was awarded a Grade C BCCI contract for the 2024–25 season, which brings him $115,982 (₹1 crore) annually. Additionally, his growing car collection, which includes an Audi and a Renault Duster, marks another personal milestone for him.&nbsp;

Sarfaraz Khan, who recently lost 17 kg as part of his fitness journey, has an estimated net worth of $2 million. His income comes from domestic cricket, a BCCI contract and media partnerships.

India batter Sarafaz Khan has recently grabbed headlines, not for his cricket heroics but for his incredible fitness journey. After being left out of the Indian squad for the Anderson-Tendulkar trophy, Sarfaraz prioritised his health and fitness. In a photo shared on his Instagram story, Sarfaraz wrote that he has lost 17 kg and looks completely different from what we have seen him on the pitch playing for Mumbai and India. Although he missed out on the England Tests, Sarfaraz did travel to the United Kingdom (UK) with the India A team, where he scored an impressive 92 in the first unofficial Test. However, he was dropped from the next match to make room for KL Rahul in the playing XI. The 27-year-old has been on a weight loss journey for the past few months and his father, Naushad Khan, discussed the same during an interview with the Hindustan Times in May this year. Also read | Who are three Indian captains apart from Kohli, Dhoni and Rohit to lead in all three formats? "We have controlled our diet a lot. We have stopped eating roti, rice, etc. We haven't eaten roti or rice at home for 1 to 1.5 months. We eat broccoli, carrots, cucumber, salad, and green vegetable salad. But the main thing is that we have stopped eating roti and rice. We have stopped eating sugar. We have stopped eating maida (refined wheat flour) and bakery items," Naushad was quoted as saying to the Hindustan Times. What is the net worth of Sarfaraz Khan? While working hard on his game and fitness, Sarfaraz is also doing well financially. His estimated net worth stands at $2 million (around ₹16.6 crore), thanks to BCCI contracts, domestic match fees and media partnerships. Though he went unsold in the last IPL auction, Sarfaraz was awarded a Grade C BCCI contract for the 2024–25 season, which brings him $115,982 (₹1 crore) annually. Additionally, his growing car collection, which includes an Audi and a Renault Duster, marks another personal milestone for him.

Sarfaraz Khan, who recently lost 17 kg as part of his fitness journey, has an estimated net worth of $2 million. His income comes from domestic cricket, a BCCI contract and media partnerships.

How rich is Indian cricketer Sarfaraz Khan? Net worth, IPL salary and car collection

Indian Team batter Sarfaraz Khan has taken the internet by storm with his body transformation pictures, which he posted on social media, leaving the fans and former cricketers, including Kevin Pietersen, in shock. Often mocked and criticised on the internet for being overweight, Sarfaraz lost 17 kgs in two months, an unbelievable transformation. Taking to his Instagram handle, Sarfaraz posted a picture of his ripped physique following a strict diet fitness programme he deployed to shed extra weight. Pietersen, meanwhile, replied to an X post, lauding Sarfaraz for setting his priorities straight, further urging out-of-favour opening batter Prithvi Shaw to take a note of it and work on his fitness.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-bcci-confirms-nitish-kumar-reddy-out-of-england-series-arshdeep-to-miss-manchester-test-1753079900760">BCCI confirms Nitish Kumar Reddy out of England series; Arshdeep to miss Manchester Test</a>&nbsp;Sarfaraz looks unrecognisable, one of the social media users wrote; however, Pietersen’s words were more encouraging. While praising him and also bringing Shaw into the picture, who is nowhere to be found in domestic cricket, let alone for India at the top level, Pietersen wrote,&nbsp;&nbsp;“Outstanding effort, young man! Huge congrats and I’m sure it’s going to lead to better and more consistent performances on the field. I love the time you’ve spent reorganising your priorities! &nbsp;LFG! 🚀 &nbsp;Can someone show Prithvi this please?&nbsp; &nbsp;It can be done!&nbsp; &nbsp;Strong body, strong mind!”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Outstanding effort, young man! Huge congrats and I’m sure it’s going to lead to better and more consistent performances on the field. I love the time you’ve spent reorganising your priorities! LFG! 🚀 Can someone show Prithvi this please? It can be done! Strong body, strong… <a href="https://t.co/U6KbUXlfVf">https://t.co/U6KbUXlfVf</a>&mdash; Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) <a href="https://twitter.com/KP24/status/1947235360209269232?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Sarfaraz has been a domestic giant for a few years now. The right-handed batter earned his maiden India Test call-up early last year for the home Test series against England, scoring a debut fifty in Rajkot. He scored two more fifty-plus scores before breaking into the big category with his brilliant 150 - his highest Test score to date, against New Zealand in the Bengaluru Test late last year, but never got picked for India afterwards.&nbsp;Despite his unmatchable numbers in domestic cricket, he lost his place to all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy and gloveman Dhruv Jurel, who also happened to be fitter than him. Things got worse when none of the ten IPL teams bid for him at last year’s November auction, while his younger brother, Musheer Khan, represented Punjab Kings in IPL 2024. &nbsp;Sarfaraz took it upon himself to work on his fitness and lose weight, which he achieved after working hard towards it and maintaining discipline throughout, impressing everyone, including Pietersen. &nbsp;On the other hand, Shaw, once a blue-eyed boy of Indian Cricket, is out of selection contention across all levels, more so for his lack of fitness discipline than his cricketing form.&nbsp; &nbsp;Although Sarfaraz seemed to have taken the correct steps to gain top fitness, there are no signs of Shaw doing the same in his quest to make an India comeback.

Often mocked and criticised on the internet for being overweight, Sarfaraz lost 17 kgs in two months, an unbelievable transformation.

Indian Team batter Sarfaraz Khan has taken the internet by storm with his body transformation pictures, which he posted on social media, leaving the fans and former cricketers, including Kevin Pietersen, in shock. Often mocked and criticised on the internet for being overweight, Sarfaraz lost 17 kgs in two months, an unbelievable transformation. Taking to his Instagram handle, Sarfaraz posted a picture of his ripped physique following a strict diet fitness programme he deployed to shed extra weight. Pietersen, meanwhile, replied to an X post, lauding Sarfaraz for setting his priorities straight, further urging out-of-favour opening batter Prithvi Shaw to take a note of it and work on his fitness. Also read | BCCI confirms Nitish Kumar Reddy out of England series; Arshdeep to miss Manchester Test Sarfaraz looks unrecognisable, one of the social media users wrote; however, Pietersen’s words were more encouraging. While praising him and also bringing Shaw into the picture, who is nowhere to be found in domestic cricket, let alone for India at the top level, Pietersen wrote, “Outstanding effort, young man! Huge congrats and I’m sure it’s going to lead to better and more consistent performances on the field. I love the time you’ve spent reorganising your priorities! LFG! 🚀 Can someone show Prithvi this please? It can be done! Strong body, strong mind!”

Often mocked and criticised on the internet for being overweight, Sarfaraz lost 17 kgs in two months, an unbelievable transformation.

Sarfaraz Khan’s weight-loss journey shocks internet; Kevin Pietersen in awe, urges THIS Indian batter to take inspiration

Karun Nair made merry on day one of India-A’s first unofficial Test against England Lions in Canterbury, scoring an unbeaten 186, with Sarfaraz Khan and Dhruv Jurel hitting respective fifties. India-A batters piled up runs at will, ending the day on 409 for three. Though Sarfaraz is not part of the 18-man squad picked for the five-match Test series starting June 20 in Leeds, Nair and Jurel pressed their cases for a spot in the India XI for the England Tests.&nbsp;India-A opener and skipper Abhimanyu Easwaran departed early inside the first hour, while his opening partner Yashasvi Jaiswal departed shortly before lunch. Overcast weather and seaming conditions did make it challenging for the India-A in the first hour, but Nair, batting at three and alongside Sarfaraz, took the game away from the Lions soon after. The pair began finding gaps at will, completing their respective fifties and marching towards the three-digit score.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kerala-community-faces-backlash-for-warmly-welcoming-shahid-afridi-at-dubai-event-video-goes-viral-pahalgam-terror-attack-1748666839102">Kerala community faces backlash for warmly welcoming Shahid Afridi at Dubai event – Video goes viral</a> &nbsp;Though the left-arm seamer Josh Hull, who trapped Easwaran in the front on eight, accounted for Sarfaraz on a well-made 92, Nair stood his ground, hitting cuts, uppercuts, punched drives, pulls, inside-out drives and several reverse sweeps to keep the Indian fans and selectors interested. He completed his hundred, his 24th First-class century, with the crowd at the St Lawrence Ground cheering for the Test hopeful. &nbsp;Nair stitched a massive 181-run stand with Sarfaraz for the third wicket and later 177 and counting with Dhruv Jurel, part of the Test squad, for the fourth before the stumps. Like how he did it in the past, Nair quietly hogged all the limelight on day one of a lengthy England tour.&nbsp; &nbsp;Meanwhile, Nair, 33, has played six Test matches, the last of which came eight years ago in 2017. In only his third Test against England (in Chennai), Nair became only the second Indian after former opener Virender Sehwag to hit a Test triple hundred, smashing a record 303.&nbsp; &nbsp;However, with seniors like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli retired from Tests, the selectors have thrown support behind Nair to fill up the vacant top-order spot with his experience. He, alongside KL Rahul in the top four, could do wonders for India in this new World Test Championship (WTC) cycle and help them realise their dream of winning one.&nbsp;

England Lions vs India-A, Day 1: Karun Nair stays unbeaten on 186, Test hopefuls among runs

Karun Nair made merry on day one of India-A’s first unofficial Test against England Lions in Canterbury, scoring an unbeaten 186, with Sarfaraz Khan and Dhruv Jurel hitting respective fifties. India-A batters piled up runs at will, ending the day on 409 for three. Though Sarfaraz is not part of the 18-man squad picked for the five-match Test series starting June 20 in Leeds, Nair and Jurel pressed their cases for a spot in the India XI for the England Tests. India-A opener and skipper Abhimanyu Easwaran departed early inside the first hour, while his opening partner Yashasvi Jaiswal departed shortly before lunch. Overcast weather and seaming conditions did make it challenging for the India-A in the first hour, but Nair, batting at three and alongside Sarfaraz, took the game away from the Lions soon after. The pair began finding gaps at will, completing their respective fifties and marching towards the three-digit score. Also read | Kerala community faces backlash for warmly welcoming Shahid Afridi at Dubai event – Video goes viral Though the left-arm seamer Josh Hull, who trapped Easwaran in the front on eight, accounted for Sarfaraz on a well-made 92, Nair stood his ground, hitting cuts, uppercuts, punched drives, pulls, inside-out drives and several reverse sweeps to keep the Indian fans and selectors interested. He completed his hundred, his 24th First-class century, with the crowd at the St Lawrence Ground cheering for the Test hopeful. Nair stitched a massive 181-run stand with Sarfaraz for the third wicket and later 177 and counting with Dhruv Jurel, part of the Test squad, for the fourth before the stumps. Like how he did it in the past, Nair quietly hogged all the limelight on day one of a lengthy England tour. Meanwhile, Nair, 33, has played six Test matches, the last of which came eight years ago in 2017. In only his third Test against England (in Chennai), Nair became only the second Indian after former opener Virender Sehwag to hit a Test triple hundred, smashing a record 303. However, with seniors like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli retired from Tests, the selectors have thrown support behind Nair to fill up the vacant top-order spot with his experience. He, alongside KL Rahul in the top four, could do wonders for India in this new World Test Championship (WTC) cycle and help them realise their dream of winning one.

Nair stitched a massive 181-run stand with Sarfaraz for the third wicket and later 177 and counting with Dhruv Jurel, part of the Test squad, for the fourth before the stumps.

Veteran India batter Chesteshwar Pujara called exclusion of Sarfaraz Khan from India squad for Test tour of England as 'unfortunate.' Sarfaraz, who was part of India's Test squad in Australia, could make the cut in the new look team led by Shubman Gill."The reason he is not in the squad, I feel, is he has been very successful in the Asian conditions or in India. The management feels that he may not be as successful in Australia or in England. And there were some fitness issues in the past. I don't know about his current fitness. But he has been working hard on his fitness also. So, at this stage, I feel it's a bit unfortunate. But at the same time, someone like Karun Nair, who has performed really well in domestic cricket, deserved an opportunity," Pujara told Hindustan Times.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-eng-vs-ind-2025-england-tour-preparation-would-help-shubman-gill-embrace-test-captaincy-and-redefine-his-batting-cheteshwar-pujara-1748260786659">England tour preparation would help Gill embrace Test captaincy and redefine his batting: Pujara</a>Sarfaraz, ironically, made his debut against England last year in Rajkot. He has played six Tests so far with 371 runs to his name at an average of 37 and a best of 150. He has not played since the third Test against New Zealand at home in Mumbai last year where scored 0 &amp; 1 across two innings.India selectors, led by Ajit Agarkar however, handed a comeback to Karun Nair who had last played a Test eight years ago. Nair is the only India batter apart from Virender Sehwag to score a triple ton in Tests which also came against England albeit at home.Nair, however, has been rewarded for the strong domestic performance and his experience could be useful in England given India would be touring without Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma.Both the senior players had announced their retirement earlier this month within a week of each other, leaving India with a huge gaps to fill.

India selectors, led by Ajit Agarkar however, handed a comeback to Karun Nair who had last played a Test eight years ago. Nair is the only India batter apart from Virender Sehwag to score a triple ton in Tests.

Veteran India batter Chesteshwar Pujara called exclusion of Sarfaraz Khan from India squad for Test tour of England as 'unfortunate.' Sarfaraz, who was part of India's Test squad in Australia, could make the cut in the new look team led by Shubman Gill. "The reason he is not in the squad, I feel, is he has been very successful in the Asian conditions or in India. The management feels that he may not be as successful in Australia or in England. And there were some fitness issues in the past. I don't know about his current fitness. But he has been working hard on his fitness also. So, at this stage, I feel it's a bit unfortunate. But at the same time, someone like Karun Nair, who has performed really well in domestic cricket, deserved an opportunity," Pujara told Hindustan Times. Also Read - England tour preparation would help Gill embrace Test captaincy and redefine his batting: Pujara Sarfaraz, ironically, made his debut against England last year in Rajkot. He has played six Tests so far with 371 runs to his name at an average of 37 and a best of 150. He has not played since the third Test against New Zealand at home in Mumbai last year where scored 0 & 1 across two innings. India selectors, led by Ajit Agarkar however, handed a comeback to Karun Nair who had last played a Test eight years ago. Nair is the only India batter apart from Virender Sehwag to score a triple ton in Tests which also came against England albeit at home. Nair, however, has been rewarded for the strong domestic performance and his experience could be useful in England given India would be touring without Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Both the senior players had announced their retirement earlier this month within a week of each other, leaving India with a huge gaps to fill.

India selectors, led by Ajit Agarkar however, handed a comeback to Karun Nair who had last played a Test eight years ago. Nair is the only India batter apart from Virender Sehwag to score a triple ton in Tests.

IND vs ENG 2025: Pujara calls Sarfaraz Khan's Test snub 'unfortunate, but at the same time...'

Earlier today (12 May), Virat Kohli announced his retirement from Test cricket. As the King lives his den, here are 5 young players who could replace him in Test cricket. Sports | Photos

5 player who can replace Virat Kohli in India Test team

Former India batter Sanjay Manjrekar has called&nbsp;the decision to send Sarfaraz Khan to bat at number 8 in the first innings of third Test against New Zealand in Mumbai a poor call. It happened on Day 2 of the Test on Saturday (Nov 2) with India trying to keep a left-right combination on the crease.

"A guy in form, has 3 fifties in his first 3 Tests, gets 150 in the Bangalore Test, a good player of spin, pushed back in the order to keep left &amp; right combination?? Makes no sense. Sarfaraz now walking in at no 8! Poor call by India," Manjrekar posted on social media platform X.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/factors-like-money-or-kkr-ceo-reveals-reason-behind-not-retaining-shreyas-iyer-772765">'Factors like money or...,' KKR CEO reveals reason behind not retaining Shreyas Iyer</a>

Sarfaraz, however, couldn't do much at number 8 and got out for a four-ball duck as India posted 263 in response to New Zealand's first innings total of 235 and took a crucial 28-run lead.

Earlier, Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant started from India's overnight score of 86/4 and added 96 runs for the fifth wicket before Pant fell on a personal score of 60.

Gill played a mature innings of 90 runs while Washington Sundar scored a handy 38 down the order as India crossed 200 for the first time in the first innings of this three-Test series.

In New Zealand's second innings, Indian spinners Ravindra Jadeja and Ravi Ashwin took a total of seven wickets between them as the hosts were 171/9 at the close of play on Saturday with a lead of 143 runs in the second innings.

India would hope to get the remaining wicket quickly on Day 3 and will aim at chasing less than 150 to keep New Zealand from whitewashing them at home.

New Zealand already won the first two Tests and have already won the series – their first in India.

Former India batter Sanjay Manjrekar has called the decision to send Sarfaraz Khan to bat at number 8 in the first innings of third Test against New Zealand in Mumbai a poor call.

Former India batter Sanjay Manjrekar has called the decision to send Sarfaraz Khan to bat at number 8 in the first innings of third Test against New Zealand in Mumbai a poor call. It happened on Day 2 of the Test on Saturday (Nov 2) with India trying to keep a left-right combination on the crease. "A guy in form, has 3 fifties in his first 3 Tests, gets 150 in the Bangalore Test, a good player of spin, pushed back in the order to keep left & right combination?? Makes no sense. Sarfaraz now walking in at no 8! Poor call by India," Manjrekar posted on social media platform X. Also Read: 'Factors like money or...,' KKR CEO reveals reason behind not retaining Shreyas Iyer Sarfaraz, however, couldn't do much at number 8 and got out for a four-ball duck as India posted 263 in response to New Zealand's first innings total of 235 and took a crucial 28-run lead. Earlier, Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant started from India's overnight score of 86/4 and added 96 runs for the fifth wicket before Pant fell on a personal score of 60. Gill played a mature innings of 90 runs while Washington Sundar scored a handy 38 down the order as India crossed 200 for the first time in the first innings of this three-Test series. In New Zealand's second innings, Indian spinners Ravindra Jadeja and Ravi Ashwin took a total of seven wickets between them as the hosts were 171/9 at the close of play on Saturday with a lead of 143 runs in the second innings. India would hope to get the remaining wicket quickly on Day 3 and will aim at chasing less than 150 to keep New Zealand from whitewashing them at home. New Zealand already won the first two Tests and have already won the series – their first in India.

IND vs NZ, 3rd Test: 'Pushed back in order to keep...,' Ex-India player on sending Sarfaraz at number 8

India captain Rohit Sharma said the hosts would give it all in the remaining two matches against New Zealand following conceding the Bengaluru game by eight wickets. Speaking to the broadcaster after the first Test that ended with the Kiwis winning it by eight wickets inside the first session on day five, Rohit said it was never easy to come back from getting all out on 46 in the first innings, but Sarfaraz Khan and Rishabh Pant’s heroics in the second innings kept them in the game.

The skipper lauded the two run-scores for showing maturity while batting in the third innings, with the team trailing by 356 runs. Although India took the lead with seven wickets remaining (at that time), a late strike from New Zealand seamers dented their momentum, removing their last seven wickets for just 54 runs.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-v-nz-2024-new-zealand-win-in-bengaluru-bags-first-test-victory-in-india-in-36-years-769134">IND v NZ 2024: New Zealand win in Bengaluru, bags first Test victory in India in 36 years</a>

“It was a good effort in the second innings with bat. We knew what lies ahead, get as many as possible. A couple of guys stood out, was great to watch. When you're 350 behind, can't think too much. Just have to try and bat the ball and see where the game goes,” Rohit said after the first Test.

“(It) was exciting to watch partnerships get us into the game. We could've easily been bowled under 350, it's something we're proud of. Everyone's on the edge of the seat when Pant and Sarfaraz bat. Pant's was a mature innings, he's done it for a while, he played his shots too,” the skipper lauded Rishabh Pant for his fabulous 99 in the second innings.

Speaking of Sarfaraz, who came in as the last-minute replacement for injured Shubman Gill, Rohit said how he batted showed maturity and was highly impressive.

“Sarfaraz was very clear and mature in just his third or fourth Test,” Rohit said of the young middle-order batter.

<h2>Rohit credits New Zealand for breaking deadlock</h2>

New Zealand hasn't won a Test in India in the past 36 years, with their last win coming in Mumbai, in 1998; however, after folding India on 46 – their lowest Test total at home and third-lowest overall in the first innings, the Kiwis gave them a real chance of making history, which they eventually did.

“(46 all out) I said it at the press conference after day 1, we knew it'd be a challenge, with overcast conditions and tricky pitch. We didn't think we'll be 46 all out, but due credit to NZ. It set us back and games like this will happen. Gotta take the good things forward. We've been here before, conceding home losses, these things happen. Two Tests to go, we know what it takes and will give it all in the next two Tests,” the India captain noted.

Meanwhile, Pune will host the second Test between India and New Zealand on Thursday (Oct 24).&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

India captain Rohit Sharma said the hosts would give it all in the remaining two matches against New Zealand following conceding the Bengaluru game by eight wickets.

India captain Rohit Sharma said the hosts would give it all in the remaining two matches against New Zealand following conceding the Bengaluru game by eight wickets. Speaking to the broadcaster after the first Test that ended with the Kiwis winning it by eight wickets inside the first session on day five, Rohit said it was never easy to come back from getting all out on 46 in the first innings, but Sarfaraz Khan and Rishabh Pant’s heroics in the second innings kept them in the game. The skipper lauded the two run-scores for showing maturity while batting in the third innings, with the team trailing by 356 runs. Although India took the lead with seven wickets remaining (at that time), a late strike from New Zealand seamers dented their momentum, removing their last seven wickets for just 54 runs. ALSO READ: IND v NZ 2024: New Zealand win in Bengaluru, bags first Test victory in India in 36 years “It was a good effort in the second innings with bat. We knew what lies ahead, get as many as possible. A couple of guys stood out, was great to watch. When you're 350 behind, can't think too much. Just have to try and bat the ball and see where the game goes,” Rohit said after the first Test. “(It) was exciting to watch partnerships get us into the game. We could've easily been bowled under 350, it's something we're proud of. Everyone's on the edge of the seat when Pant and Sarfaraz bat. Pant's was a mature innings, he's done it for a while, he played his shots too,” the skipper lauded Rishabh Pant for his fabulous 99 in the second innings. Speaking of Sarfaraz, who came in as the last-minute replacement for injured Shubman Gill, Rohit said how he batted showed maturity and was highly impressive. “Sarfaraz was very clear and mature in just his third or fourth Test,” Rohit said of the young middle-order batter. Rohit credits New Zealand for breaking deadlock New Zealand hasn't won a Test in India in the past 36 years, with their last win coming in Mumbai, in 1998; however, after folding India on 46 – their lowest Test total at home and third-lowest overall in the first innings, the Kiwis gave them a real chance of making history, which they eventually did. “(46 all out) I said it at the press conference after day 1, we knew it'd be a challenge, with overcast conditions and tricky pitch. We didn't think we'll be 46 all out, but due credit to NZ. It set us back and games like this will happen. Gotta take the good things forward. We've been here before, conceding home losses, these things happen. Two Tests to go, we know what it takes and will give it all in the next two Tests,” the India captain noted. Meanwhile, Pune will host the second Test between India and New Zealand on Thursday (Oct 24). (With inputs from agencies)

Rohit Sharma lauds Sarfaraz, Pant for mature knocks; backs India to give it all in remaining two Tests vs NZ

New Zealand beat India by eight wickets to win the first Test in Bengaluru on Sunday (Oct 20), ending 36-year wait of bagging a Test victory in the country. Chasing a mere 107 on the final day, the Kiwis lost both openers to Jasprit Bumrah, but Will Young and Rachin Ravindra ensured a smooth ride afterwards. Besides, this is New Zealand’s third Test win in India, with the first two coming in Nagpur (1969) and Mumbai (1988).

A win in Bengaluru sees New Zealand take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-ramandeep-singh-bags-a-one-handed-stunner-against-pakistan-a-in-emerging-asia-cup-2024-769116">WATCH - Ramandeep Singh bags a one-handed stunner against Pakistan-A in Emerging Asia Cup 2024</a>

Meanwhile, the first Test had everything a cricket fan would wish for - from drama to action, from a team getting all out under 50 to the same side smashing the most runs in an innings in this match. Besides, three players scored centuries of the highest order.

After day one got washed out due to the rain and wet outfield, New Zealand seamers made merry with the new ball inside the first two sessions on the second day, dismissing India on 46 – their lowest Test total at home and third-lowest overall.&nbsp;

In reply, the Kiwis took a 134-run lead before stumps were called on day two. Day three was all about New Zealand all-rounder Rachin Ravindra, who hit a fantastic 134, helping his team take a massive 356-run lead in the first innings.

Though the lead was daunting, Rohit Sharma’s men ensured they remained unbothered by it. Unlike how it panned out in the first innings, both openers began with the onslaught, with the skipper charging and completing a fifty soon. Following his wicket, Virat Kohli and Sarfaraz Khan added 136 for the third wicket before Glenn Phillips picked up Kohli on the last ball of day three to dent India’s momentum.

<h2>Day four drama and Pant’s masterclass</h2>

Day four was a dream day for the Indian fans. While Sarfaraz was inching closer to his maiden Test hundred in the first session, Pant was waiting at the other end to unleash himself. The pair wreaked havoc, adding 177 for the fourth wicket, with India’s scorecard reading 408 for three at one stage.

The situation, however, changed soon after with the introduction of the second new ball, with the seamers making the most of it. While the rookie seamer William ORourke returned with three wickets, including removing Pant on 99 – his seventh score in the 90s in Tests, Henry picked as many wickets to wrap up India’s innings on 462, with them needing 107 runs to win.

Although the bad light forced the umpires to call off play late on day four, Bumrah made early inroads in the final innings by removing Kiwi skipper Tom Latham, trapped in front on a duck.

Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj kept beating the edges, with Bumrah later picking Devon Conway similarly. That, however, was the last wicket of the day, with Rachin and Young stitching a 75-run partnership for the third wicket to see New Zealand through.&nbsp;

Pune will stage the second match on Thursday (Oct 21).&nbsp;

New Zealand beat India by eight wickets to win the first Test in Bengaluru on Sunday (Oct 20), ending 36-year wait of bagging a Test victory in the country. Chasing a mere 107 on the final day, the Kiwis lost both openers to Jasprit Bumrah, but Will Young and Rachin Ravindra ensured a smooth ride afterwards.

New Zealand beat India by eight wickets to win the first Test in Bengaluru on Sunday (Oct 20), ending 36-year wait of bagging a Test victory in the country. Chasing a mere 107 on the final day, the Kiwis lost both openers to Jasprit Bumrah, but Will Young and Rachin Ravindra ensured a smooth ride afterwards. Besides, this is New Zealand’s third Test win in India, with the first two coming in Nagpur (1969) and Mumbai (1988). A win in Bengaluru sees New Zealand take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. ALSO READ: WATCH - Ramandeep Singh bags a one-handed stunner against Pakistan-A in Emerging Asia Cup 2024 Meanwhile, the first Test had everything a cricket fan would wish for - from drama to action, from a team getting all out under 50 to the same side smashing the most runs in an innings in this match. Besides, three players scored centuries of the highest order. After day one got washed out due to the rain and wet outfield, New Zealand seamers made merry with the new ball inside the first two sessions on the second day, dismissing India on 46 – their lowest Test total at home and third-lowest overall. In reply, the Kiwis took a 134-run lead before stumps were called on day two. Day three was all about New Zealand all-rounder Rachin Ravindra, who hit a fantastic 134, helping his team take a massive 356-run lead in the first innings. Though the lead was daunting, Rohit Sharma’s men ensured they remained unbothered by it. Unlike how it panned out in the first innings, both openers began with the onslaught, with the skipper charging and completing a fifty soon. Following his wicket, Virat Kohli and Sarfaraz Khan added 136 for the third wicket before Glenn Phillips picked up Kohli on the last ball of day three to dent India’s momentum. Day four drama and Pant’s masterclass Day four was a dream day for the Indian fans. While Sarfaraz was inching closer to his maiden Test hundred in the first session, Pant was waiting at the other end to unleash himself. The pair wreaked havoc, adding 177 for the fourth wicket, with India’s scorecard reading 408 for three at one stage. The situation, however, changed soon after with the introduction of the second new ball, with the seamers making the most of it. While the rookie seamer William ORourke returned with three wickets, including removing Pant on 99 – his seventh score in the 90s in Tests, Henry picked as many wickets to wrap up India’s innings on 462, with them needing 107 runs to win. Although the bad light forced the umpires to call off play late on day four, Bumrah made early inroads in the final innings by removing Kiwi skipper Tom Latham, trapped in front on a duck. Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj kept beating the edges, with Bumrah later picking Devon Conway similarly. That, however, was the last wicket of the day, with Rachin and Young stitching a 75-run partnership for the third wicket to see New Zealand through. Pune will stage the second match on Thursday (Oct 21).

IND v NZ 2024: New Zealand win in Bengaluru, bags first Test victory in India in 36 years

India are left at the mercy of the rain gods after Day 4 of the Bengaluru Test ended with New Zealand sitting in pole position to win the Bengaluru Test match. After bowling India out for 462 runs in the second innings, the visitors now need 107 runs to win the match. The Kiwis did come out to bat for four balls on Day 4 before Stumps were called due to bad light and rain storming down heavily in the South Indian city.

<h2>India left at rain god’s mercy</h2>

India will need a washout on Day 5 of the Bengaluru Test as New Zealand stand within winning distance of the match. While bowlers will look to give their best, 107 should not trouble New Zealand batters from winning the Test match in Bengaluru. As things stand, New Zealand will look to get the better of India and dent their chances of a place in the final of the World Test Championship (WTC) in June 2025.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/watch-rishabh-pant-clears-the-roof-with-monstrous-107m-six-misses-out-on-ton-against-new-zealand-768958">WATCH: Rishabh Pant clears the roof with monstrous 107m six, misses out on ton against New Zealand</a>

<h2>Rishabh Pant misses out on a hundred</h2>

With India in a spot of bother after the untimely dismissal of Virat Kohli on the last ball of Day 3, Pant and Sarafraz Khan led the foundation for India’s comeback into the contest. While Sarfaraz scored 150, Rishabh’s highlight reel was the mammoth 107-metre&nbsp;six against Tim Southee&nbsp;on the third ball of the 87th over.

Pant along with Sarfaraz helped India to a fighting comeback as they overcame the deposit of 356 runs from the first innings. While Rishabh was dismissed for 99, Sarfaraz also scored a well-deserved 150 while Virat (71) and Rohit Sharma (52) also played a crucial role for India. The pair of Pant and Sarfaraz put a 177-run stand for the fourth wicket before the collapse started for Rohit’s men.

India are left at the mercy of the rain gods after Day 4 of the Bengaluru Test ended with New Zealand sitting in pole position to win the Bengaluru Test match. After bowling India out for 462 runs in the second innings, the visitors now need 107 runs to win the match.

India are left at the mercy of the rain gods after Day 4 of the Bengaluru Test ended with New Zealand sitting in pole position to win the Bengaluru Test match. After bowling India out for 462 runs in the second innings, the visitors now need 107 runs to win the match. The Kiwis did come out to bat for four balls on Day 4 before Stumps were called due to bad light and rain storming down heavily in the South Indian city. India left at rain god’s mercy India will need a washout on Day 5 of the Bengaluru Test as New Zealand stand within winning distance of the match. While bowlers will look to give their best, 107 should not trouble New Zealand batters from winning the Test match in Bengaluru. As things stand, New Zealand will look to get the better of India and dent their chances of a place in the final of the World Test Championship (WTC) in June 2025. ALSO READ | WATCH: Rishabh Pant clears the roof with monstrous 107m six, misses out on ton against New Zealand Rishabh Pant misses out on a hundred With India in a spot of bother after the untimely dismissal of Virat Kohli on the last ball of Day 3, Pant and Sarafraz Khan led the foundation for India’s comeback into the contest. While Sarfaraz scored 150, Rishabh’s highlight reel was the mammoth 107-metre six against Tim Southee on the third ball of the 87th over. Pant along with Sarfaraz helped India to a fighting comeback as they overcame the deposit of 356 runs from the first innings. While Rishabh was dismissed for 99, Sarfaraz also scored a well-deserved 150 while Virat (71) and Rohit Sharma (52) also played a crucial role for India. The pair of Pant and Sarfaraz put a 177-run stand for the fourth wicket before the collapse started for Rohit’s men.

IND vs NZ, 1st Test: New Zealand sit in pole position despite Sarfaraz Khan, Rishabh Pant's heroics with bat

Sarfaraz Khan hit his maiden Test hundred against New Zealand on day four of the ongoing first Test in Bengaluru as Team India closes the first-inning deficit gap. The right-handed batter became only the seventh player in this century to score a Test ton while batting at number four for India, joining the elite list of the great Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, Virat Kohli, VVS Laxman, Sourav Ganguly and Ajinkya Rahane.

WATCH VIDEO -

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A moment Sarfaraz Khan will remember forever! ☺️ 
 
He is jubilant, Rishabh Pant applauds &amp; the dressing room on its feet! 👏 👏 
 
Live ▶️ <a href="https://t.co/8qhNBrrtDF">https://t.co/8qhNBrrtDF</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvNZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvNZ</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/IDFCFIRSTBank?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IDFCFIRSTBank</a> <a href="https://t.co/pwt12jHfND">pic.twitter.com/pwt12jHfND</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1847498240859557950?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Having scored a duck in the first innings, in which India got all out on 46 – their lowest Test total at home, Sarfaraz returned stronger in the next.

He first paced the innings alongside Virat Kohli late on day three, remaining unbeaten on 70 at stumps, and then with Rishabh Pant, who returned to the field after suffering a blow to his knee while keeping earlier, completed his maiden Test hundred.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bgt-ruturaj-gaikwad-leads-race-to-fill-rohits-shoes-in-one-test-as-bcci-pick-india-a-squad-768877">BGT: Ruturaj Gaikwad leads race to fill Rohit’s shoes in one Test as BCCI pick India-A squad</a>

He attacked the opposition from the word go, smashing the Kiwi pacers and spinners to all parts of the ground. Sarfaraz looked composed in his approach and game, and with Pant around at the other end, Sarfaraz put the fourth gear early on day four.

Meanwhile, this is Sarfaraz’s 16th first-class hundred and second in consecutive matches. Dropped from the side for the Bangladesh Tests earlier, Sarfaraz made a statement with a stunning double hundred for Mumbai in the Irani Cup against the Rest of India, becoming the batter from Mumbai to achieve this feat.

Here is how the internet reacted to Sarfaraz's maiden Test hundred -

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A hundred that is straight out of his dreams. He is cheeky, he is impish but he is very smart and this is a century for Sarfaraz that is the outcome of an extraordinary life while still so young. Absolutely enjoyed watching it
— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) <a href="https://twitter.com/bhogleharsha/status/1847494519773692110?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Absolute delight for Sarfaraz Khan. Loved the way his teammates seemed to enjoy that first test century for him as much as he did. Never gave up and kept working.
— Ian Raphael Bishop (@irbishi) <a href="https://twitter.com/irbishi/status/1847494864507728208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Sarfaraz, Sarfaraz, you little beauty! Naushad bhai take a bow today! Maza aaya: how many late cuts did you make him practise as a kid! ⭐️⭐️⭐️
— Rajdeep Sardesai (@sardesairajdeep) <a href="https://twitter.com/sardesairajdeep/status/1847494207453176291?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Rohit: That was an effortless maiden century 
 
Sarfaraz Khan: <a href="https://t.co/2ujVWsXmOb">pic.twitter.com/2ujVWsXmOb</a>
— Sagar (@sagarcasm) <a href="https://twitter.com/sagarcasm/status/1847494356493566427?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
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📸📸 Presenting the Sarfaraz Khan 💯 moment IN PICS 
 
Live ▶️ <a href="https://t.co/8qhNBrrtDF">https://t.co/8qhNBrrtDF</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvNZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvNZ</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/IDFCFIRSTBank?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IDFCFIRSTBank</a> <a href="https://t.co/cDUK9a6HKU">pic.twitter.com/cDUK9a6HKU</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1847505949860233332?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Pant and Sarfaraz completed a hundred-run stand for the fourth wicket in the second innings.

Sarfaraz Khan hit his maiden Test hundred against New Zealand on day four of the ongoing first Test in Bengaluru as Team India closes the first-inning deficit gap.

Sarfaraz Khan hit his maiden Test hundred against New Zealand on day four of the ongoing first Test in Bengaluru as Team India closes the first-inning deficit gap. The right-handed batter became only the seventh player in this century to score a Test ton while batting at number four for India, joining the elite list of the great Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, Virat Kohli, VVS Laxman, Sourav Ganguly and Ajinkya Rahane. WATCH VIDEO - A moment Sarfaraz Khan will remember forever! ☺️ He is jubilant, Rishabh Pant applauds & the dressing room on its feet! 👏 👏 Live ▶️ https://t.co/8qhNBrrtDF#TeamIndia | #INDvNZ | @IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/pwt12jHfND — BCCI (@BCCI) October 19, 2024 × Having scored a duck in the first innings, in which India got all out on 46 – their lowest Test total at home, Sarfaraz returned stronger in the next. He first paced the innings alongside Virat Kohli late on day three, remaining unbeaten on 70 at stumps, and then with Rishabh Pant, who returned to the field after suffering a blow to his knee while keeping earlier, completed his maiden Test hundred. ALSO READ: BGT: Ruturaj Gaikwad leads race to fill Rohit’s shoes in one Test as BCCI pick India-A squad He attacked the opposition from the word go, smashing the Kiwi pacers and spinners to all parts of the ground. Sarfaraz looked composed in his approach and game, and with Pant around at the other end, Sarfaraz put the fourth gear early on day four. Meanwhile, this is Sarfaraz’s 16th first-class hundred and second in consecutive matches. Dropped from the side for the Bangladesh Tests earlier, Sarfaraz made a statement with a stunning double hundred for Mumbai in the Irani Cup against the Rest of India, becoming the batter from Mumbai to achieve this feat. Here is how the internet reacted to Sarfaraz's maiden Test hundred - A hundred that is straight out of his dreams. He is cheeky, he is impish but he is very smart and this is a century for Sarfaraz that is the outcome of an extraordinary life while still so young. Absolutely enjoyed watching it — Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) October 19, 2024 × Absolute delight for Sarfaraz Khan. Loved the way his teammates seemed to enjoy that first test century for him as much as he did. Never gave up and kept working. — Ian Raphael Bishop (@irbishi) October 19, 2024 × Sarfaraz, Sarfaraz, you little beauty! Naushad bhai take a bow today! Maza aaya: how many late cuts did you make him practise as a kid! ⭐️⭐️⭐️ — Rajdeep Sardesai (@sardesairajdeep) October 19, 2024 × Rohit: That was an effortless maiden century Sarfaraz Khan: pic.twitter.com/2ujVWsXmOb — Sagar (@sagarcasm) October 19, 2024 × 📸📸 Presenting the Sarfaraz Khan 💯 moment IN PICS Live ▶️ https://t.co/8qhNBrrtDF#TeamIndia | #INDvNZ | @IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/cDUK9a6HKU — BCCI (@BCCI) October 19, 2024 × Pant and Sarfaraz completed a hundred-run stand for the fourth wicket in the second innings.

IND v NZ 1st Test: Sarfaraz Khan hits maiden Test hundred in Bengaluru as India cuts deficit, internet reacts

New Zealand sit in pole position to win the Bengaluru Test after they gained a 356-run lead in the first innings against India in the first of the three-match Test series. While India were humiliated in the first innings after being bowled out for 46, the hosts made a solid start with Virat Kohli and Sarfaraz Khan leading the revival in the second innings. At Stumps on Day 3, India were 231/3 and trailing by 125 runs with Sarfaraz batting on 70 while Virat got out on the final ball of the day on 70.

<h2>Virat’s wicket dilutes India’s revival</h2>

Tasked to narrow the lead of 356 runs, India made a good start to their second innings with Yashasvi Jaiswal (35) and Rohit Sharma (52) stitching an opening partnership of 72 runs. Despite the positive start, they both were dismissed in quick succession as India went from 72/0 to 95/2. However, it was the Virat-Sarfaraz partnership that laid the foundation for India’s revival as they staged a partnership of 136 runs for the third wicket before the former was dismissed on the final ball of Day 3.

The Indian pair was scoring at a rate of more than five runs per over before the day was diluted by Kohli’s untimely dismissal. Sarfaraz will now be joined by KL Rahul on Day 4 as Team India look for a way back into the contest.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/noman-ali-and-sajid-khan-put-up-colossal-effort-to-see-pakistan-through-in-second-test-vs-eng-level-series-768619">Noman Ali and Sajid Khan put up colossal effort to see Pakistan through in second Test vs ENG, level series</a>

<h2>New Zealand extend dominance with bat</h2>

Having closed Day 2 on the front foot, New Zealand lost wickets at constant intervals in the opening session of Day 3. Rachin Ravindra led the charge scoring his latest ton before being shown the pavilion by Kuldeep Yadav on 134. Tim Southee gave him a good hand having amassed 65 off 73 to help New Zealand reach 402 before getting bowled out. This meant the visitors had a massive lead at the end of the first innings.

New Zealand sit in pole position to win the Bengaluru Test after they gained a 356-run lead in the first innings against India in the first of the three-match Test series.

New Zealand sit in pole position to win the Bengaluru Test after they gained a 356-run lead in the first innings against India in the first of the three-match Test series. While India were humiliated in the first innings after being bowled out for 46, the hosts made a solid start with Virat Kohli and Sarfaraz Khan leading the revival in the second innings. At Stumps on Day 3, India were 231/3 and trailing by 125 runs with Sarfaraz batting on 70 while Virat got out on the final ball of the day on 70. Virat’s wicket dilutes India’s revival Tasked to narrow the lead of 356 runs, India made a good start to their second innings with Yashasvi Jaiswal (35) and Rohit Sharma (52) stitching an opening partnership of 72 runs. Despite the positive start, they both were dismissed in quick succession as India went from 72/0 to 95/2. However, it was the Virat-Sarfaraz partnership that laid the foundation for India’s revival as they staged a partnership of 136 runs for the third wicket before the former was dismissed on the final ball of Day 3. The Indian pair was scoring at a rate of more than five runs per over before the day was diluted by Kohli’s untimely dismissal. Sarfaraz will now be joined by KL Rahul on Day 4 as Team India look for a way back into the contest. ALSO READ | Noman Ali and Sajid Khan put up colossal effort to see Pakistan through in second Test vs ENG, level series New Zealand extend dominance with bat Having closed Day 2 on the front foot, New Zealand lost wickets at constant intervals in the opening session of Day 3. Rachin Ravindra led the charge scoring his latest ton before being shown the pavilion by Kuldeep Yadav on 134. Tim Southee gave him a good hand having amassed 65 off 73 to help New Zealand reach 402 before getting bowled out. This meant the visitors had a massive lead at the end of the first innings.

IND vs NZ, 1st Test: New Zealand in pole position in Bengaluru despite Kohli-Sarfaraz fightback

After Day 1 of the India versus New Zealand first Test was washed out, Rohit Sharma-led hosts won the toss on Day 2, on Thursday (Oct 17), and opted to bat first at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru. As it was reported that Shubman Gill has neck issues, the right-hander misses out, hence, India have included Sarfaraz Khan whereas Kuldeep Yadav has&nbsp;replaced Akash Deep. Hence, India have gone on with three spinners and two seamers.

At the coin toss, Rohit said, "We are going to have a bat first. It has been under the covers and we do understand that it could be slightly sticky early on but the nature of the pitch is such that you would want to put runs on the board first. You want to get the result as much as we want. We assess where we are decide what needs to be done as a team. We have played well in the last few Test matches. Fresh series for us and we want to start well. From the last Test two changes, Gill misses out, Sarfaraz comes in. Kuldeep comes in for Akash."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-aus-anil-kumble-feels-shubman-gill-should-not-open-in-rohit-sharmas-absence-names-his-pick-767975">Ind vs Aus: Anil Kumble feels Shubman Gill should not open in Rohit Sharma's absence, names his pick</a>

India come into this series on the back of a 2-0 whitewash over Bangladesh, at home. The home team have won as many as 18 consecutive Test series on home soil, since 2012/13, and will pose a serious threat to Tom Latham-led Kiwis. The Black Caps, on the other hand, were whitewashed in the two-match Test series by&nbsp;Sri Lanka, in the Island nation, and have a stern task ahead in this series. Notably, NZ have won only two Tests in India.

With no Gill, KL Rahul -- who&nbsp;shifted to the lower order recently -- is expected to bat at No. 3. India might spring in a surprise by promoting Sarfaraz or Virat Kohli as well.

Meanwhile, the visitors are without Kane Williamson, their most prolific batter, due to a groin injury. In addition, this is Tom Latham's first-ever series as full-time Test captain, succeeding Tim Southee.

Playing XIs:

India: Rohit Sharma (c), Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Sarfaraz Khan, Rishabh Pant (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj

<p ng-bind-html="comm[ts].comm" ng-class="get_comm_class(comm[ts]) " ng-hide="comm[ts].geo != null &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.length &gt; 0 &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.indexOf($root.$GEO.country) == -1" ng-if="comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:news' &amp;&amp; comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:video' &amp;&amp; comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:comments'">New Zealand: Tom Latham (c), Devon Conway, Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Blundell (wk), Glenn Phillips, Matt Henry, Tim Southee, Ajaz Patel, William ORourke

After Day 1 of the India versus New Zealand first Test was washed out, Rohit Sharma-led hosts won the toss on Day 2, on Thursday (Oct 17), and opted to bat first at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru.

After Day 1 of the India versus New Zealand first Test was washed out, Rohit Sharma-led hosts won the toss on Day 2, on Thursday (Oct 17), and opted to bat first at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru. As it was reported that Shubman Gill has neck issues, the right-hander misses out, hence, India have included Sarfaraz Khan whereas Kuldeep Yadav has replaced Akash Deep. Hence, India have gone on with three spinners and two seamers. At the coin toss, Rohit said, "We are going to have a bat first. It has been under the covers and we do understand that it could be slightly sticky early on but the nature of the pitch is such that you would want to put runs on the board first. You want to get the result as much as we want. We assess where we are decide what needs to be done as a team. We have played well in the last few Test matches. Fresh series for us and we want to start well. From the last Test two changes, Gill misses out, Sarfaraz comes in. Kuldeep comes in for Akash." Also read: Ind vs Aus: Anil Kumble feels Shubman Gill should not open in Rohit Sharma's absence, names his pick India come into this series on the back of a 2-0 whitewash over Bangladesh, at home. The home team have won as many as 18 consecutive Test series on home soil, since 2012/13, and will pose a serious threat to Tom Latham-led Kiwis. The Black Caps, on the other hand, were whitewashed in the two-match Test series by Sri Lanka, in the Island nation, and have a stern task ahead in this series. Notably, NZ have won only two Tests in India. With no Gill, KL Rahul -- who shifted to the lower order recently -- is expected to bat at No. 3. India might spring in a surprise by promoting Sarfaraz or Virat Kohli as well. Meanwhile, the visitors are without Kane Williamson, their most prolific batter, due to a groin injury. In addition, this is Tom Latham's first-ever series as full-time Test captain, succeeding Tim Southee. Playing XIs: India: Rohit Sharma (c), Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Sarfaraz Khan, Rishabh Pant (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj New Zealand: Tom Latham (c), Devon Conway, Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Blundell (wk), Glenn Phillips, Matt Henry, Tim Southee, Ajaz Patel, William ORourke

Ind vs NZ, 1st Test: Injured Shubman Gill misses out, Kuldeep Yadav and Sarfaraz Khan named in India's XI

Ajinkya Rahane-led Mumbai lifted the prestigious Irani Cup on Saturday (Oct 5) after they beat the Rest of India on the first innings lead in Lucknow. The win saw Mumbai end their 27-year drought to win the premier domestic competition. Sarfaraz Khan was the hero of the hour for Mumbai and was named Player of the Match for his unbeaten 222-run knock in the first innings.

<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Mumbai lift Irani Cup<o:p></o:p></h2>

Having entered the premier domestic competition of Indian cricket as Ranji Trophy champions, Mumbai faced a resilient Rest of India squad. Sarfaraz was the hero of the hour for Mumbai as he scored an unbeaten 222 along with skipper Rahane as he missed out on a hundred. The former India skipper scored 97 in the first innings, and Mumbai scored 537, with helpful contributions from Tanush Kotian (64) and Shardul Thakur (36). <o:p></o:p>

Shreyas Iyer also scored 57 while Mukesh Kumar scalped five wickets during his spell and Yash Dayal and Prasidh Krishna both bagged two each.

<o:p>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/its-not-right-says-former-spinner-harbhajan-singh-on-hardik-pandyas-snub-as-new-india-t20i-skipper-764714">'It's not right,' says former spinner Harbhajan Singh on Hardik Pandya's snub as new India T20I skipper</a><o:p></o:p>

In response, the Rest of India scored 416 as Abhimanyu Easwaran’s 191-run knock was the feature of the innings. He got a good helping hand from Dhruv Jurel as the Rest of India fell short of the first innings total by 121 runs, handing Mumbai the decisive advantage which proved vital. <o:p></o:p>

Mumbai’s second innings also had a great showing with Tanush Kotian slamming 114 while Prithvi Shaw scored 76. Mohit Avasthi scored 51 with the bat before the match was declared a draw on Day 5 of the contest as Mumbai ended their second innings at 329/8. With not much time left and Mumbai having a massive lead of 450 runs, both captains decided to shake hands with one session to go. <o:p></o:p>

This is Mumbai’s 15th Irani Cup triumph having last won the title in the 1997-98 season when they beat the Rest of India by 54 runs.

Ajinkya Rahane-led Mumbai lifted the prestigious Irani Cup on Saturday (Oct 5) after they beat the Rest of India on the first innings lead in Lucknow. The win saw Mumbai end their 27-year drought to win the premier domestic competition.

Ajinkya Rahane-led Mumbai lifted the prestigious Irani Cup on Saturday (Oct 5) after they beat the Rest of India on the first innings lead in Lucknow. The win saw Mumbai end their 27-year drought to win the premier domestic competition. Sarfaraz Khan was the hero of the hour for Mumbai and was named Player of the Match for his unbeaten 222-run knock in the first innings. Mumbai lift Irani Cup Having entered the premier domestic competition of Indian cricket as Ranji Trophy champions, Mumbai faced a resilient Rest of India squad. Sarfaraz was the hero of the hour for Mumbai as he scored an unbeaten 222 along with skipper Rahane as he missed out on a hundred. The former India skipper scored 97 in the first innings, and Mumbai scored 537, with helpful contributions from Tanush Kotian (64) and Shardul Thakur (36). Shreyas Iyer also scored 57 while Mukesh Kumar scalped five wickets during his spell and Yash Dayal and Prasidh Krishna both bagged two each. ALSO READ | 'It's not right,' says former spinner Harbhajan Singh on Hardik Pandya's snub as new India T20I skipper In response, the Rest of India scored 416 as Abhimanyu Easwaran’s 191-run knock was the feature of the innings. He got a good helping hand from Dhruv Jurel as the Rest of India fell short of the first innings total by 121 runs, handing Mumbai the decisive advantage which proved vital. Mumbai’s second innings also had a great showing with Tanush Kotian slamming 114 while Prithvi Shaw scored 76. Mohit Avasthi scored 51 with the bat before the match was declared a draw on Day 5 of the contest as Mumbai ended their second innings at 329/8. With not much time left and Mumbai having a massive lead of 450 runs, both captains decided to shake hands with one session to go. This is Mumbai’s 15th Irani Cup triumph having last won the title in the 1997-98 season when they beat the Rest of India by 54 runs.

Ajinkya Rahane-led Mumbai end 27-year drought to lift Irani Cup, beat Rest of India in final

Musheer Khan, brother of India batter Sarfaraz Khan, will&nbsp;not be taking part in the upcoming Irani Trophy for Mumbai against Rest of India. This comes after Musheer was involved in a car accident on the outskirts of Lucknow - the venue of the Irani Trophy match which begins October 1.

Musheer suffered neck injuries in the road accident while traveling from Azamgarh (hometown) to Lucknow in a Toyota Fortuner SUV on Saturday (Sep 28). His father Naushad Khan and two others were also in the SUV at the time of accident.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-ban-2nd-test-read-pitch-and-conditions-wrong-jadeja-on-rohit-as-india-bowl-after-winning-toss-762705">IND vs BAN, 2nd Test: 'Read pitch and conditions wrong,' Jadeja on Rohit as India bowl after winning toss</a>

"The SUV collided into a median and toppled," reported cricket news outlet ESPNCricinfo citing eye witness and a member from traffic directorate of Lucknow Police.

The batter was immediately taken to hospital and was treated for concussion with extent of injuries yet to be confirmed. Musheer is expected to be brought to Mumbai soon for a detailed checkup in a Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) affiliated hospital.

Apart from Irani Trophy, Musheer is also likely to miss the first few games of upcoming Ranji Trophy (domestic first-class tournament) for Mumbai as well. His team begins the Ranji campaign on October 11 against Baroda.

The accident comes as a setback for the young batter at a time when he had a brilliant start to his first-class career. Musheer has played nine first-class games so far, hitting three tons and a fifty. He hit a double ton in last season's quarter-final, a half-century in the semi-final and a match-winning ton in the final against Vidarbha.

Most recently, he scored 181 in Duleep Trophy for India B while playing against a strong bowling line-up for India A comprising of pacers Akash Deep, Avesh Khan, Khaleel Ahmed and spinner Kuldeep Yadav.

The Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA), meanwhile, is yet to name a replacement for him in the squad.

Musheer Khan, brother of India batter Sarfaraz Khan, will not be taking part in the upcoming Irani Trophy for Mumbai against Rest of India. This comes after Musheer was involved in a car accident on the outskirts of Lucknow - the venue of the Irani Trophy match which begins October 1.

Musheer Khan, brother of India batter Sarfaraz Khan, will not be taking part in the upcoming Irani Trophy for Mumbai against Rest of India. This comes after Musheer was involved in a car accident on the outskirts of Lucknow - the venue of the Irani Trophy match which begins October 1. Musheer suffered neck injuries in the road accident while traveling from Azamgarh (hometown) to Lucknow in a Toyota Fortuner SUV on Saturday (Sep 28). His father Naushad Khan and two others were also in the SUV at the time of accident. Also Read: IND vs BAN, 2nd Test: 'Read pitch and conditions wrong,' Jadeja on Rohit as India bowl after winning toss "The SUV collided into a median and toppled," reported cricket news outlet ESPNCricinfo citing eye witness and a member from traffic directorate of Lucknow Police. The batter was immediately taken to hospital and was treated for concussion with extent of injuries yet to be confirmed. Musheer is expected to be brought to Mumbai soon for a detailed checkup in a Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) affiliated hospital. Apart from Irani Trophy, Musheer is also likely to miss the first few games of upcoming Ranji Trophy (domestic first-class tournament) for Mumbai as well. His team begins the Ranji campaign on October 11 against Baroda. The accident comes as a setback for the young batter at a time when he had a brilliant start to his first-class career. Musheer has played nine first-class games so far, hitting three tons and a fifty. He hit a double ton in last season's quarter-final, a half-century in the semi-final and a match-winning ton in the final against Vidarbha. Most recently, he scored 181 in Duleep Trophy for India B while playing against a strong bowling line-up for India A comprising of pacers Akash Deep, Avesh Khan, Khaleel Ahmed and spinner Kuldeep Yadav. The Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA), meanwhile, is yet to name a replacement for him in the squad.

Musheer Khan, brother of India batter Sarfaraz, set to miss Irani Trophy after road accident

India’s Ishan Kishan has kept his hopes of a return to the senior side after being picked for the Irani Cup on Tuesday (Sep 24). Ishan, who represented India C in the Duleep Trophy, will now wear the Rest of India badge but will face stern competition from Dhruv Jurel, who will also be in the squad in case he is not in the Indian team for the Kanpur Test starting on Friday (Sep 27). The Irani Cup contest will be played from 1-5 October in Lucknow.

<h2>Ishan keeps hopes alive for India return</h2>

The Indian southpaw has been out of favour ever since withdrawing from the South Africa tour and failing to represent Jharkhand in the Ranji Trophy last season. Ishan was also stripped from the central contract last season along with Shreyas Iyer. Ishan scored 111 against India B but failed miserably in the rest of the three innings combing 23 runs during the Duleep Trophy.

On the other hand, Jurel will be part of the team in case he is not picked for the Indian team for the Kanpur Test. The same goes for Sarfaraz and Yash Dayal who are with the Indian team but are unlikely to make the Playing XI for the Kanpur Test. In this case, Sarfaraz will represent Mumbai for whom he had flourished last season.

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<h2>Squads for the Irani Cup</h2>

Rest of India: Ruturaj Gaikwad (capt), Abhimanyu Easwaran (vice-capt), B Sai Sudharsan, Devdutt Padikkal, Dhruv Jurel (wk)*, Ishan Kishan (wk), Manav Suthar, Saransh Jain, Prasidh Krishna, Mukesh Kumar, Yash Dayal*, Ricky Bhui, Shashwat Rawat, Khaleel Ahmed, Rahul Chahar.

Mumbai: Ajinkya Rahane (capt), Prithvi Shaw, Ayush Mhatre, Musheer Khan, Sarfaraz Khan*, Shreyas Iyer, Siddhesh Lad, Suryansh Shedge, Hardik Tamore (wk), Sidhaant Addhatrao (wk), Shams Mulani, Tanush Kotian, Himanshu Singh, Shardul Thakur, Mohit Avasthi, Mohammad Juned Khan, Royston Dias.

India’s Ishan Kishan has kept his hopes of a return to the senior side after being picked for the Irani Cup on Tuesday (Sep 24). Ishan, who represented India C in the Duleep Trophy, will now wear the Rest of India badge but will face stern competition from Dhruv Jurel, who will also be in the squad in case he is not in the Indian team for the Kanpur Test starting on Friday (Sep 27).

India’s Ishan Kishan has kept his hopes of a return to the senior side after being picked for the Irani Cup on Tuesday (Sep 24). Ishan, who represented India C in the Duleep Trophy, will now wear the Rest of India badge but will face stern competition from Dhruv Jurel, who will also be in the squad in case he is not in the Indian team for the Kanpur Test starting on Friday (Sep 27). The Irani Cup contest will be played from 1-5 October in Lucknow. Ishan keeps hopes alive for India return The Indian southpaw has been out of favour ever since withdrawing from the South Africa tour and failing to represent Jharkhand in the Ranji Trophy last season. Ishan was also stripped from the central contract last season along with Shreyas Iyer. Ishan scored 111 against India B but failed miserably in the rest of the three innings combing 23 runs during the Duleep Trophy. On the other hand, Jurel will be part of the team in case he is not picked for the Indian team for the Kanpur Test. The same goes for Sarfaraz and Yash Dayal who are with the Indian team but are unlikely to make the Playing XI for the Kanpur Test. In this case, Sarfaraz will represent Mumbai for whom he had flourished last season. ALSO READ | 'Just accept it,' Ravi Ashwin on India pacer Jasprit Bumrah calling himself fitter than Virat Kohli Squads for the Irani Cup Rest of India: Ruturaj Gaikwad (capt), Abhimanyu Easwaran (vice-capt), B Sai Sudharsan, Devdutt Padikkal, Dhruv Jurel (wk)*, Ishan Kishan (wk), Manav Suthar, Saransh Jain, Prasidh Krishna, Mukesh Kumar, Yash Dayal*, Ricky Bhui, Shashwat Rawat, Khaleel Ahmed, Rahul Chahar. Mumbai: Ajinkya Rahane (capt), Prithvi Shaw, Ayush Mhatre, Musheer Khan, Sarfaraz Khan*, Shreyas Iyer, Siddhesh Lad, Suryansh Shedge, Hardik Tamore (wk), Sidhaant Addhatrao (wk), Shams Mulani, Tanush Kotian, Himanshu Singh, Shardul Thakur, Mohit Avasthi, Mohammad Juned Khan, Royston Dias.

Ishan Kishan, Dhruv Jurel to play for Rest of India in Irani Cup; Sarfaraz Khan to represent Mumbai

India head coach Gautam Gambhir has all but confirmed the inclusion of Rishabh Pant and KL Rahul for the opening Test match against Bangladesh starting on Thursday (Sep 19). The contest which will be played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai will see the return of Pant in the red-ball format for the first time since December 2022 having got injured in a near-fatal car accident. The duo's inclusion means both Dhruv Jurel and Sarfaraz Khan will have to sit out despite shining in India’s last Test series against England in March.

<h2>Gambhir all but confirms Pant, Rahul's inclusion</h2>

"We don't drop anyone. We just pick the players who fit the XI. Jurel is a phenomenal player, but when Pant is coming in, sometimes people have to wait. Same with Sarfaraz. There will be opportunities, but you have to wait," Gambhir said in the pre-match press conference.

It was already rumoured that Rahul was going to get the nod ahead of Sarfaraz in the Playing XI while Pant and Jurel were involved in a tug-of-war for the keeper’s role. However, Pant is now set to start his first Test match for India in 21 months having been out of action in the entire 2023. Interestingly, his last Test before the near-fatal accident in December 2022 was also against Bangladesh.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-ban-dinesh-karthik-backs-gautam-gambhir-to-succeed-in-test-format-as-coach-says-players-will-enjoy-759627">IND vs BAN: Dinesh Karthik backs Gautam Gambhir to succeed in Test format as coach, says 'players will enjoy'</a>

Pant returned to action during the India Premier League (IPL 2024) and was also part of the Indian team during their T20 World Cup triumph. He last played for India in a Test match on home turf in March 2022.

India are also expected to field three spinners while Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj will be the pace options. &nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2>India vs Bangladesh, Team India's Probabe Playing 11 for 1st Test:</h2>

Rohit Sharma (Captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant (Wicketkeeper), R Ashwin, R Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohd. Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah

India head coach Gautam Gambhir has all but confirmed the inclusion of Rishabh Pant and KL Rahul for the opening Test match against Bangladesh starting on Thursday (Sep 19).

India head coach Gautam Gambhir has all but confirmed the inclusion of Rishabh Pant and KL Rahul for the opening Test match against Bangladesh starting on Thursday (Sep 19). The contest which will be played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai will see the return of Pant in the red-ball format for the first time since December 2022 having got injured in a near-fatal car accident. The duo's inclusion means both Dhruv Jurel and Sarfaraz Khan will have to sit out despite shining in India’s last Test series against England in March. Gambhir all but confirms Pant, Rahul's inclusion "We don't drop anyone. We just pick the players who fit the XI. Jurel is a phenomenal player, but when Pant is coming in, sometimes people have to wait. Same with Sarfaraz. There will be opportunities, but you have to wait," Gambhir said in the pre-match press conference. It was already rumoured that Rahul was going to get the nod ahead of Sarfaraz in the Playing XI while Pant and Jurel were involved in a tug-of-war for the keeper’s role. However, Pant is now set to start his first Test match for India in 21 months having been out of action in the entire 2023. Interestingly, his last Test before the near-fatal accident in December 2022 was also against Bangladesh. ALSO READ | IND vs BAN: Dinesh Karthik backs Gautam Gambhir to succeed in Test format as coach, says 'players will enjoy' Pant returned to action during the India Premier League (IPL 2024) and was also part of the Indian team during their T20 World Cup triumph. He last played for India in a Test match on home turf in March 2022. India are also expected to field three spinners while Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj will be the pace options. India vs Bangladesh, Team India's Probabe Playing 11 for 1st Test: Rohit Sharma (Captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant (Wicketkeeper), R Ashwin, R Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohd. Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah

IND vs BAN, 1st Test: Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul to get the nod ahead of Dhruv Jurel, Sarfaraz Khan

Former Indian opener and chief selector Kris Srikkanth 'feels bad' for Sarfaraz Khan as the right-hander is likely to lose his Test spot with the return of senior batter KL Rahul ahead of the Bangladesh home series, commencing in Chennai on Sep 19. Sarfaraz made his Test debut during the England home series and ended with 200 runs in three Tests, including three half-centuries. The dashing young batter played at No. 5, Rahul's original position, after the latter got injured during the England series opener.&nbsp;

Former BCCI chief selector Srikkanth feels Rahul will be given the nod as he is a bigger player and has proven his credentials in Tests, also while playing overseas. The veteran feels India has an eye on the upcoming Australia tour, comprising five Tests, and Rahul's away record is also good.

"Honestly, I feel bad for Sarfaraz Khan. But, this happens, at times&nbsp;in Test cricket. You would have been playing well, but when a big player returns, you will have to lose your place. Take for instance, Rishabh Pant is returning, because of which Dhruv Jurel and Sarfaraz Khan are losing their places. KL Rahul is coming in," Srikkanth said on his YouTube channel.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/icc-test-rankings-rohit-sharma-in-top-5-virat-kohli-and-yashasvi-jaiswal-move-up-before-bangladesh-series-757786">ICC Test Rankings: Rohit Sharma in top 5, Virat Kohli and Yashasvi Jaiswal move up before Bangladesh series</a>

"At the back of the mind, they (Indian team management) are also keeping the Australia series. New Zealand are also coming. KL Rahul has performed well overseas, in Australia he has done well," added Srikkanth.

In 50 Tests, Rahul has 2,863 runs at an average of 34.08, including 8 hundreds. In away matches, he averages a modest 31.05 but has slammed seven centuries and 5 half-centuries.

India's hectic Test season commences with the two home games versus Bangladesh, before hosting New Zealand in three Tests. From thereon, they will travel to Australia for the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, featuring five Tests.

India's squad for the Bangladesh series also sees the return of Rishabh Pant in whites post his return from a horrific car crash in late 2022. With this, he is likely to replace Dhruv Jurel behind the stumps.

India's squad for two Tests versus Bangladesh: Rohit Sharma (C), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Sarfaraz Khan, Rishabh Pant (WK), Dhruv Jurel (WK), R Ashwin, R Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohd. Siraj, Akash Deep, Jasprit Bumrah, Yash Dayal.

Former Indian opener and chief selector Kris Srikkanth 'feels bad' for Sarfaraz Khan as the right-hander is likely to lose his Test spot with the return of senior batter KL Rahul ahead of the Bangladesh home series, commencing in Chennai on Sep 19.

Former Indian opener and chief selector Kris Srikkanth 'feels bad' for Sarfaraz Khan as the right-hander is likely to lose his Test spot with the return of senior batter KL Rahul ahead of the Bangladesh home series, commencing in Chennai on Sep 19. Sarfaraz made his Test debut during the England home series and ended with 200 runs in three Tests, including three half-centuries. The dashing young batter played at No. 5, Rahul's original position, after the latter got injured during the England series opener. Former BCCI chief selector Srikkanth feels Rahul will be given the nod as he is a bigger player and has proven his credentials in Tests, also while playing overseas. The veteran feels India has an eye on the upcoming Australia tour, comprising five Tests, and Rahul's away record is also good. "Honestly, I feel bad for Sarfaraz Khan. But, this happens, at times in Test cricket. You would have been playing well, but when a big player returns, you will have to lose your place. Take for instance, Rishabh Pant is returning, because of which Dhruv Jurel and Sarfaraz Khan are losing their places. KL Rahul is coming in," Srikkanth said on his YouTube channel. Also read: ICC Test Rankings: Rohit Sharma in top 5, Virat Kohli and Yashasvi Jaiswal move up before Bangladesh series "At the back of the mind, they (Indian team management) are also keeping the Australia series. New Zealand are also coming. KL Rahul has performed well overseas, in Australia he has done well," added Srikkanth. In 50 Tests, Rahul has 2,863 runs at an average of 34.08, including 8 hundreds. In away matches, he averages a modest 31.05 but has slammed seven centuries and 5 half-centuries. India's hectic Test season commences with the two home games versus Bangladesh, before hosting New Zealand in three Tests. From thereon, they will travel to Australia for the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, featuring five Tests. India's squad for the Bangladesh series also sees the return of Rishabh Pant in whites post his return from a horrific car crash in late 2022. With this, he is likely to replace Dhruv Jurel behind the stumps. India's squad for two Tests versus Bangladesh: Rohit Sharma (C), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Sarfaraz Khan, Rishabh Pant (WK), Dhruv Jurel (WK), R Ashwin, R Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohd. Siraj, Akash Deep, Jasprit Bumrah, Yash Dayal.

He has performed well...: Kris Srikkanth on likelihood of Sarfaraz Khan losing Test spot to KL Rahul

With less than 10 days to go before the start of the two-match Test series against Bangladesh, the suspense surrounding the Indian team’s middle-order set-up could be lifted according to a Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) source. According to reports, a BCCI official late Monday (Sep 9) evening&nbsp;confirmed that KL Rahul is all set to get the nod in the Playing XI ahead of Sarfaraz Khan. The duo is battling for a spot in the middle-order as India prepare for a crunch next few months in red-ball format with the Australia tour also on the horizon.

<h2>KL Rahul to play against Bangladesh?</h2>

"For people on the outside, they don't understand how a team works and what are the systems in place. In his last three Test matches, KL scored a century in South Africa, one of the best Test knocks in recent times and 86 at Hyderabad in the last Test he played before injury," a BCCI source said as quoted by PTI.

He confirmed that Rahul will start ahead. "He was not dropped but got injured. So, he is fit and available, scored a fifty in Duleep, got match time and will start," the source added.

India are set to return to Test action after&nbsp;March when they beat England 4-1 in the five-match series. Sarfaraz who made his debut during that series was in line to start for India, however, Rahul is likely to retain the faith of the team management. He last featured for the Indian team during the Hyderabad Test against England, where the hosts lost.

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Speculations were high after the loss that Rahul had been dropped, however, the source&nbsp;added that the Lucknow Super Giants captain was injured and will be back in the Playing XI for the opening Test in Chennai.

<h2>India’s squad for the 1st Test of the Bangladesh Test series:&nbsp;</h2>

Rohit Sharma (c), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Sarfaraz Khan, Rishabh Pant (wk), Dhruv Jurel (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Jasprit Bumrah, Yash Dayal.

With less than 10 days to go before the start of the two-match Test series against Bangladesh, the suspense surrounding the Indian team’s middle-order set-up could be lifted according to a Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) source.

With less than 10 days to go before the start of the two-match Test series against Bangladesh, the suspense surrounding the Indian team’s middle-order set-up could be lifted according to a Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) source. According to reports, a BCCI official late Monday (Sep 9) evening confirmed that KL Rahul is all set to get the nod in the Playing XI ahead of Sarfaraz Khan. The duo is battling for a spot in the middle-order as India prepare for a crunch next few months in red-ball format with the Australia tour also on the horizon. KL Rahul to play against Bangladesh? "For people on the outside, they don't understand how a team works and what are the systems in place. In his last three Test matches, KL scored a century in South Africa, one of the best Test knocks in recent times and 86 at Hyderabad in the last Test he played before injury," a BCCI source said as quoted by PTI. He confirmed that Rahul will start ahead. "He was not dropped but got injured. So, he is fit and available, scored a fifty in Duleep, got match time and will start," the source added. India are set to return to Test action after March when they beat England 4-1 in the five-match series. Sarfaraz who made his debut during that series was in line to start for India, however, Rahul is likely to retain the faith of the team management. He last featured for the Indian team during the Hyderabad Test against England, where the hosts lost. ALSO READ | Pathum Nissanka stars with unbeaten ton as Sri Lanka record first Test win in England after a decade Speculations were high after the loss that Rahul had been dropped, however, the source added that the Lucknow Super Giants captain was injured and will be back in the Playing XI for the opening Test in Chennai. India’s squad for the 1st Test of the Bangladesh Test series: Rohit Sharma (c), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Sarfaraz Khan, Rishabh Pant (wk), Dhruv Jurel (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Jasprit Bumrah, Yash Dayal.

IND vs BAN, 1st Test: KL Rahul likely to get the nod in Playing XI ahead of Sarfaraz Khan - Reports

Musheer Khan, brother of India batter Sarfaraz Khan, is all but confirmed to travel to Australia for the upcoming India A tour. It is the shadow series to be played alongside India's five-Test tour of Australia in November later this year. India A will be playing three four-day Tests on the shadow tour.

The development was reported in the news agency PTI after Musheer's gutsy and match-winning 181 in the ongoing Duleep Trophy (domestic red-ball tournament) for India B.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/credit-to-sri-lanka-but-englands-oval-test-loss-not-due-to-complacency-reckons-stand-in-captain-ollie-pope-757359">Credit to Sri Lanka but England's Oval Test loss not due to 'complacency', reckons stand-in captain Ollie Pope</a>

India B were 94/7 against India A but Musheer stood tall and took the total score to 321 which helped his&nbsp;team get the first innings lead and eventually win the game.

Musheer's innings, which came on the back of a strong first-class season, led to him getting fast-tracked into the Indian set up. With India having already moved on from Ajinkya Rahane &amp; Cheteshwar Pujara and Virat Kohli &amp; Rohit Sharma nearing towards end, it looks right time to get the youngsters some experience.

Former India wicketkeeper-batter Vijay Dahiya also praised the young batter for his technique and told PTI: "What makes Musheer different is his mindset, which is very strong. I can't predict the future but if he keeps on scoring runs consistently, he could be a very good option for the Indian team."

“The standout thing about his batting is his consistency. He started off from where he left the last season. He scored runs in the Ranji Trophy semifinal and final and then a hundred on the opening day of domestic cricket in 2024," Dahiya added.

Musheer's brother Sarfaraz, who made his Test debut against England earlier this year, has also kept his place in the Test team, getting selected in squad for first Test against Bangladesh.

Musheer Khan, brother of India batter Sarfaraz Khan, is all but confirmed to travel to Australia for the upcoming India A tour. It is the shadow series to be played alongside India's five-Test tour of Australia in November later this year.

Musheer Khan, brother of India batter Sarfaraz Khan, is all but confirmed to travel to Australia for the upcoming India A tour. It is the shadow series to be played alongside India's five-Test tour of Australia in November later this year. India A will be playing three four-day Tests on the shadow tour. The development was reported in the news agency PTI after Musheer's gutsy and match-winning 181 in the ongoing Duleep Trophy (domestic red-ball tournament) for India B. Also Read: Credit to Sri Lanka but England's Oval Test loss not due to 'complacency', reckons stand-in captain Ollie Pope India B were 94/7 against India A but Musheer stood tall and took the total score to 321 which helped his team get the first innings lead and eventually win the game. Musheer's innings, which came on the back of a strong first-class season, led to him getting fast-tracked into the Indian set up. With India having already moved on from Ajinkya Rahane & Cheteshwar Pujara and Virat Kohli & Rohit Sharma nearing towards end, it looks right time to get the youngsters some experience. Former India wicketkeeper-batter Vijay Dahiya also praised the young batter for his technique and told PTI: "What makes Musheer different is his mindset, which is very strong. I can't predict the future but if he keeps on scoring runs consistently, he could be a very good option for the Indian team." “The standout thing about his batting is his consistency. He started off from where he left the last season. He scored runs in the Ranji Trophy semifinal and final and then a hundred on the opening day of domestic cricket in 2024," Dahiya added. Musheer's brother Sarfaraz, who made his Test debut against England earlier this year, has also kept his place in the Test team, getting selected in squad for first Test against Bangladesh.

Musheer Khan, brother of India batter Sarfaraz Khan, all set to be picked for upcoming Australia tour

Indian batter Sarfaraz Khan gave a tongue-in-cheek advice to Shubman Gill while the latter was involved with England's Jonny Bairstow in a heated sledging contest during the fifth Test between the two sides in the Dharamsala Test. India eventually won the match by an innings and 64 runs to wrap up the series 4-1. The incident happened on the third and decisive day (Mar 9) of the Test when Bairstow, playing his 100th Test for England, came on to bat in the second innings.

The bone of contention was Gill and English veteran James Anderson's exchange a day prior in India's first innings. Gill, who scored 110 on day 2 (Mar 8) of the match, was eventually dismissed by Anderson.

When Bairstow came on to bat he asked Gill "What did you say to Jimmy about retiring?"

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/explained-where-england-lost-the-test-series-against-india-698591">Explained: Where England lost the Test series against India</a>

"I told him (Anderson) he should retire," responded Gill from the slip cordon "And then he got you out next ball," chirped Bairstow in reply.

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Gill vs Bairstow: War of Words 
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"So what?" Gill asked before adding "He can get me out after a 100 …"

"100 percent" quipped the Englishman to which Gill replied: "How many hundreds have you scored in this series?"

"How many have you scored full stop?" said Bairstow and ended the slugfest.

Meanwhile, Sarfaraz Khan, who made his debut for India in Rajkot Test of the series, told Gill to tell 'Bairstow to not get excited much after scoring just a few runs in the series.'&nbsp;

Bairstow, notably, had a horrible series with the bat, scoring just 238 runs in 10 innings with a highest of 39 which incidentally came in the last innings of the series.

England just couldn't keep up the fight with India in either batting or bowling and much of the onus lies on their seniors including Bairstow.

With India short of Virat Kohli in entire series, KL Rahul for four Tests and Ravindra Jadeja for second Test in addition to an inexperienced middle order, England had chance to capitalise in each Test of the series but they failed.

Indian batter Sarfaraz Khan gave a tongue-in-cheek advice to Shubman Gill while the latter was involved with England's Jonny Bairstow in a heated sledging contest during the fifth Test between the two sides in the Dharamsala Test.

Indian batter Sarfaraz Khan gave a tongue-in-cheek advice to Shubman Gill while the latter was involved with England's Jonny Bairstow in a heated sledging contest during the fifth Test between the two sides in the Dharamsala Test. India eventually won the match by an innings and 64 runs to wrap up the series 4-1. The incident happened on the third and decisive day (Mar 9) of the Test when Bairstow, playing his 100th Test for England, came on to bat in the second innings. The bone of contention was Gill and English veteran James Anderson's exchange a day prior in India's first innings. Gill, who scored 110 on day 2 (Mar 8) of the match, was eventually dismissed by Anderson. When Bairstow came on to bat he asked Gill "What did you say to Jimmy about retiring?" Also Read: Explained: Where England lost the Test series against India "I told him (Anderson) he should retire," responded Gill from the slip cordon "And then he got you out next ball," chirped Bairstow in reply. Gill vs Bairstow: War of Words #Gills #Bairstow #anderson #INDvsENGTest #sledging pic.twitter.com/opnmLJuBTm — Mir Rameez (@RameezRaja999) March 9, 2024 × "So what?" Gill asked before adding "He can get me out after a 100 …" "100 percent" quipped the Englishman to which Gill replied: "How many hundreds have you scored in this series?" "How many have you scored full stop?" said Bairstow and ended the slugfest. Meanwhile, Sarfaraz Khan, who made his debut for India in Rajkot Test of the series, told Gill to tell 'Bairstow to not get excited much after scoring just a few runs in the series.' Bairstow, notably, had a horrible series with the bat, scoring just 238 runs in 10 innings with a highest of 39 which incidentally came in the last innings of the series. England just couldn't keep up the fight with India in either batting or bowling and much of the onus lies on their seniors including Bairstow. With India short of Virat Kohli in entire series, KL Rahul for four Tests and Ravindra Jadeja for second Test in addition to an inexperienced middle order, England had chance to capitalise in each Test of the series but they failed.

Dharamsala Test: Sarfaraz Khan offers best ADVICE to Shubman Gill while sledging Jonny Bairstow - WATCH

Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill headlined day two in Dharamsala with twin tons. While Sarfaraz Khan contributed with another fifty, debutant Devdutt Padikkal scored an impressive 65 off 103 balls to keep his team ahead. First-inning hero Kuldeep Yadav remained unbeaten on 27 as India leads by 255 at stumps on day two.

Rohit and Gill began from where they left as the pair went after the English bowlers in the first session. Both right-handed batters completed their respective hundreds before&nbsp;lunch on day two, with Gill notching his second of the series.&nbsp;

With his brilliant 103, Rohit entered an elite list of Indian openers with the most Test tons against England. He now equalled Sunil Gavaskar’s tally of four hundreds while leading the chart for batters with the most tons (6) for India since 2021. It was Rohit’s 48th international ton (43rd as an opener).

<h2>Stokes returns to bowling with a 'Jaffa'&nbsp;</h2>

Just when Rohit got to his hundred, England captain Ben Stokes, bowling for the first time since Ashes last year, clean bowled him off his first delivery. Soon after, James Anderson removed Shubman Gill, clean bowled in the next over on 110.&nbsp;

Padikkal and Sarfaraz added 97 for the fourth wicket before Bashir returned to pick both of them.

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Ravindra Jadeja and Dhruv Jurel added 15 each to the scorecard before spinners turned the tables around for England. Ravi Ashwin getting out on zero mounted worries for India.

However, an unlikely pair of Kuldeep and Jasprit Bumrah added 45 runs for the ninth wicket to frustrate England and help India add on the lead, which has crossed 250, putting the hosts in a winning position. Tom Hartley and Bashir conceded 126 and 170 runs, respectively.&nbsp;

Stokes and Anderson picked a wicket each, while Hartley finished day two with two wickets to his name.&nbsp;

Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill headlined day two in Dharamsala with twin tons. While Sarfaraz Khan contributed with another fifty, debutant Devdutt Padikkal scored an impressive 65 off 103 balls to keep his team ahead.

Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill headlined day two in Dharamsala with twin tons. While Sarfaraz Khan contributed with another fifty, debutant Devdutt Padikkal scored an impressive 65 off 103 balls to keep his team ahead. First-inning hero Kuldeep Yadav remained unbeaten on 27 as India leads by 255 at stumps on day two. Rohit and Gill began from where they left as the pair went after the English bowlers in the first session. Both right-handed batters completed their respective hundreds before lunch on day two, with Gill notching his second of the series. With his brilliant 103, Rohit entered an elite list of Indian openers with the most Test tons against England. He now equalled Sunil Gavaskar’s tally of four hundreds while leading the chart for batters with the most tons (6) for India since 2021. It was Rohit’s 48th international ton (43rd as an opener). Stokes returns to bowling with a 'Jaffa' Just when Rohit got to his hundred, England captain Ben Stokes, bowling for the first time since Ashes last year, clean bowled him off his first delivery. Soon after, James Anderson removed Shubman Gill, clean bowled in the next over on 110. Padikkal and Sarfaraz added 97 for the fourth wicket before Bashir returned to pick both of them. 🎥 That Maiden Test Fifty Moment! 🙌 Follow the match ▶️ https://t.co/jnMticF6fc #TeamIndia | #INDvENG | @devdpd07 | @IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/NLSSZ9TjCC — BCCI (@BCCI) March 8, 2024 × Ravindra Jadeja and Dhruv Jurel added 15 each to the scorecard before spinners turned the tables around for England. Ravi Ashwin getting out on zero mounted worries for India. However, an unlikely pair of Kuldeep and Jasprit Bumrah added 45 runs for the ninth wicket to frustrate England and help India add on the lead, which has crossed 250, putting the hosts in a winning position. Tom Hartley and Bashir conceded 126 and 170 runs, respectively. Stokes and Anderson picked a wicket each, while Hartley finished day two with two wickets to his name.

Dharamsala Test: Rohit, Gill floor England with twin tons on day two; Bashir shines for visitors

Former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly feels middle-order batter Sarfaraz Khan's game is more suited for Test cricket than T20Is. Sarfaraz has been one of the debutants for India in their ongoing five-match Test series versus England at home. The right-hander earned his debut cap in the third Test, in Ranchi, and made back-to-back fifties in his first game.

Speaking to RevSportz, Ganguly said, "I think he’s more of a five-day player. His game is suited for that. T20 is a different format. And the amount of runs he scored in domestic cricket, in the Ranji trophy and in first-class cricket has been phenomenal. And as they say, if you score runs, it doesn’t go to waste. And that’s exactly what’s happened to Sarfaraz."

Sarfaraz has toiled hard in the domestic circuit. He&nbsp;has a phenomenal record in first-class cricket, amassing 4,056 runs in 47 matches at an average of 68.74 while registering 14 hundreds and 13 half-centuries. Thus, his years of hard work was evident in his debut Test, in Rajkot, where he ended with 62 and 68*. However, he could not have the same impact in the following Test in Ranchi, where he only managed 14 runs overall. He will look to finish the series on a high with a big score in the fifth and final Test in Dharamsala with the series already in India's kitty.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-am-surprised-by-his-decision-to-skip-ranji-matches-ex-bcci-boss-sourav-ganguly-on-ishan-kishan-695192">‘I am surprised by his decision to skip Ranji matches’ – Ex-BCCI boss Sourav Ganguly on Ishan Kishan</a>

Rohit Sharma-led India lead the five Tests 3-1 following their five-wicket win in Ranchi. Ahead of the final Test, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced India's squad for the series finale. Vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah -- who was rested for the Ranchi clash -- has returned to the squad whereas KL Rahul remains unfit, having travelled to London to get an expert opinion on his injury.

India’s updated squad for the 5th Test:&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (C), Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Rajat Patidar, Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel (WK), KS Bharat (WK), Devdutt Padikkal, R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Akash Deep.

Former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly feels middle-order batter Sarfaraz Khan's game is more suited for Test cricket than T20Is. Sarfaraz has been one of the debutants for India in their ongoing five-match Test series versus England at home.

Former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly feels middle-order batter Sarfaraz Khan's game is more suited for Test cricket than T20Is. Sarfaraz has been one of the debutants for India in their ongoing five-match Test series versus England at home. The right-hander earned his debut cap in the third Test, in Ranchi, and made back-to-back fifties in his first game. Speaking to RevSportz, Ganguly said, "I think he’s more of a five-day player. His game is suited for that. T20 is a different format. And the amount of runs he scored in domestic cricket, in the Ranji trophy and in first-class cricket has been phenomenal. And as they say, if you score runs, it doesn’t go to waste. And that’s exactly what’s happened to Sarfaraz." Sarfaraz has toiled hard in the domestic circuit. He has a phenomenal record in first-class cricket, amassing 4,056 runs in 47 matches at an average of 68.74 while registering 14 hundreds and 13 half-centuries. Thus, his years of hard work was evident in his debut Test, in Rajkot, where he ended with 62 and 68*. However, he could not have the same impact in the following Test in Ranchi, where he only managed 14 runs overall. He will look to finish the series on a high with a big score in the fifth and final Test in Dharamsala with the series already in India's kitty. Also read: ‘I am surprised by his decision to skip Ranji matches’ – Ex-BCCI boss Sourav Ganguly on Ishan Kishan Rohit Sharma-led India lead the five Tests 3-1 following their five-wicket win in Ranchi. Ahead of the final Test, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced India's squad for the series finale. Vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah -- who was rested for the Ranchi clash -- has returned to the squad whereas KL Rahul remains unfit, having travelled to London to get an expert opinion on his injury. India’s updated squad for the 5th Test: Rohit Sharma (C), Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Rajat Patidar, Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel (WK), KS Bharat (WK), Devdutt Padikkal, R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Akash Deep.

IND vs ENG: Sarfaraz Khan’s game is suited to Test cricket, feels former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly

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