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Sarfaraz Khan was in for a pleasant surprise after the 26-year-old got his India career off to a rollicking start. Sarfaraz, who had long waited to play for India, realised his dream on Thursday when he was picked in the XI for the third Test against England in Rajkot. He made the occasion even more special by scoring a fifty on debut. Sarfaraz scored 66, way fewer runs than Rohit Sharma’s 131 and Ravindra Jadeja’s 110, but his innings almost overshadowed the knocks from his senior India teammates.
In a breathtaking debut performance, Sarfaraz Khan showcased his batting prowess with a striking strike rate of 93.94, leaving spectators anticipating a possible century. However, his remarkable innings came to an abrupt halt due to a run-out. Despite this, Sarfaraz’s contribution was undeniable, and he received a heartwarming phone call from his brother Musheer, a promising cricketer himself.
Musheer: I am fine, brother. Well played.
Sarfaraz: Thank you. Was I playing well?
Musheer: Number 1 brother. Thoroughly enjoyed it.
Sarfaraz: You will also represent India one day. Look at this (shows his India cap).
Musheer: I got a little worriedโฆ
Sarfaraz: When I played the sweep shots? The field was up.
Musheer: When you top-edged the ball playing a shot to Joe Root. I was watching and the moment I saw the ball had passed the fielder, I knew it was safe.
Sarfaraz: Alright! OK, brother. I will call you once I get to my hotel room.
๐ฆ๐๐ฟ๐ฝ๐ฟ๐ถ๐๐ฒ ๐ฆ๐๐ฟ๐ฝ๐ฟ๐ถ๐๐ฒ!
A special phone call ๐ฑ after a memorable Test Debut!#TeamIndia | #INDvENG | @IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/QcAFa5If9o
— BCCI (@BCCI) February 15, 2024
During their conversation, Sarfaraz proudly displayed his India cap, prompting a moment of concern from Musheer.
Musheer confessed, “I got a bit anxious when you top-edged that ball off Joe Root. But I knew it was safe once it passed the fielder.”
Sarfaraz reassured him, “Don’t worry, all’s well. I’ll catch up with you later.”
Later reflecting on the day, Sarfaraz shared, “It was a special moment to receive congratulations from Musheer. He’s my inspiration, and watching his batting helps me improve. Today was unforgettable, with my family cheering me on from the stands.”
Sarfaraz’s partnership with Jadeja, particularly his contribution of 43 runs, proved crucial in India’s total of 326/5. His positive intent laid a solid foundation for India’s hopes of reaching 400 on Day 2.
Sarfaraz expressed gratitude for the support, saying, “I’m grateful for this memorable day and for the opportunity to share it with loved ones. It’s a day I’ll cherish forever.”
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