IND vs ENG: The third Test between India and England will be played in Rajkot from February 15. Young batsman Sarfaraz Khan is going to debut in this Test match. Sarfaraz’s entry in the playing XI is certain after Indian wicketkeeper-batsman KL Rahul was ruled out of the Rajkot Test. According to the Indian Express, Sarfaraz Khan can debut in the third Test against England.
After averaging over 100 in three consecutive Ranji Trophy seasons, the management has decided to include him in the playing eleven. Sarfaraz was selected for the team for the series but he did not get a chance in the playing XI so far. This wait for Sarfaraz is about to end.
With KL Rahul failing in the Rajkot match, Sarfaraz is expected to remain in the playing group. A source confirmed to indianexpress.com, “Sarfaraz Khan will be making his debut with KL Rahul out of the game.’ A senior BCCI source told PTI on the condition of anonymity, “KL Rahul has not reached Rajkot yet. Local player Ravindra Jadeja has joined the team. Joining the squad was dependent on fitness and the BCCI medical team still doesn’t feel he is match fit.’
Sarfaraz Khan to make his debut in Rajkot
Sarfaraz Khan has consistently averaged more than 100 in the last three domestic seasons. He was selected in Team India for the first time in this series. Sarfaraz did not get a place in the first Test, while Rajat Patidar got a chance to debut in the second Test. A source confirmed to The Indian Express that Sarfaraz will be given a Test cap in Rajkot.
Dhruv Jurel may also debut
Dhruv Jurel may also get in the Test cap in Rajkot. The 23-year-old from Uttar Pradesh may get a chance in place of KS Bharat. Bharat has done good wicketkeeping in the series but runs have not come out of his bat. In such a situation, the management can drop them.
Sarfaraz has been the best performer in domestic cricket and has scored runs against all teams, including a century against England Lions. Rajat Patidar, who replaced Virat Kohli in the second Test in Vizag, was preferred over Sarfaraz.
The Mumbai batsman was allowed to join the Indian squad after Rahul was injured in the first Test and could not play in the next game. The selectors kept faith in him and he was included in the team for the remaining three Test matches.
His father has played an important role in his career, he has been with him in every ups and downs.
Sarfaraz’s brother Mushir Khan recently scored two centuries in the U19 World Cup in South Africa.
Also Read: IND vs ENG: KL Rahul will not play in the third Test match, Devdutt is to replace him
