Former Indian captain and head coach Anil Kumble offered words of encouragement as he presented the Test cap to Sarfaraz Khan. Kumble praised Sarfaraz Khan for his dedication and success in domestic cricket, expressing optimism about his future accomplishments.
The ongoing third Test between the Rohit Sharma-led Indian team and England at Rajkot’s Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium holds significant importance as the series is currently tied with each team winning one match.
Sarfaraz Khan, who faced frequent exclusions by selectors despite his consistent performances in domestic cricket, finally earned his first international opportunity in the third Test.
The ongoing third Test match between India and England at Rajkot’s Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium holds significant importance as the series is currently tied, with each team securing one win. Sarfaraz Khan, despite consistent performances in domestic cricket, faced repeated exclusions by selectors.
Anil Kumble gave a motivating speech for Sarfaraz
Expressing frustration over this, the 26-year-old batter finally earned his first international opportunity in the third Test. He replaced Shreyas Iyer in India’s playing XI and received his Test cap from the legendary Anil Kumble, becoming the 311th cricketer to represent the Indian cricket team in Tests.
In a video posted by the BCCI, Anil Kumble praised Sarfaraz Khan’s determination and perseverance in his path to receiving his Test cap, emphasizing the privilege of joining an exclusive group of only 310 players. He said:
“Sarfu, really proud of you, the way you have come through. I am sure your dad and family will be extremely proud of what you have been able to achieve. I know you have done all the hard work, there were some disappointments but despite that, all the runs you’ve scored through the domestic season, well done to you. And I am sure you’ll have lots of wonderful memories today. It’s the start of a long career, only 310 people have played before you. All the best,”
Watch the video:
From The Huddle! 🔊
A Test cap is special! 🫡
Words of wisdom from Anil Kumble & Dinesh Karthik that Sarfaraz Khan & Dhruv Jurel will remember for a long time 🗣️ 🗣️
You Can Not Miss This!
Follow the match ▶️ https://t.co/FM0hVG5X8M#TeamIndia | #INDvENG | @dhruvjurel21 |… pic.twitter.com/mVptzhW1v7
— BCCI (@BCCI) February 15, 2024
Sarfaraz Khan’s father expressed his feelings in a poetic way
Meanwhile, Naushad Khan, Sarfaraz Khan’s father, was visibly emotional as his son finally received his Test cap. Following the cap presentation ceremony, Naushad Khan was invited to the commentary box, where he provided a heartfelt response when asked about his son’s delayed debut in international cricket. Former India opener Aakash Chopra inquired if he had to wait a long time to witness his son play his first game for Team India.
In reply, Naushad Khan said: “Raat ko waqt chahiye guzarne ke liye, lekin Suraj meri marzi se nahi nikalne wala (it takes time for the night to pass, the sun is not going to rise according to my wish).”
Check out the Tweet:
Aakash Chopra – did you wait for too long to see Sarfaraz Khan making his debut?
Naushad Khan – Raat ko waqt chahiye guzarne ke liye, lekin Suraj meri marzi se nahi nikalne wala (it takes time for the night to pass, the sun is not going to rise according to my wish). pic.twitter.com/LqN60mUkfI
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) February 15, 2024
