‘Quality of runs in also important’- Former Indian wicketkeeper raises question over Sarfaraz Khan’s selection for 2nd Test

After losing the 1st test contrary to fans' expectations, India is on the back foot and will be rearing to make a comeback in the 2nd test at Vizag. Unfortunately, before the 2nd test, the Indian has been marred with injuries and the absence of some of their keys. 

Just after the defeat, it was announced that KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja will not be available for the 2nd test which made way for the maiden call-up of Sarfaraz Khan who has been scoring heavily in domestic cricket.

Sarfaraz Khan's journey to the national team has been paved with outstanding performances in domestic cricket. His impressive statistics and consistent contributions have been the talk of the town, setting the stage for his much-anticipated Test debut. 

However, with the competition intensifying at the international level, securing a spot in the playing XI becomes a formidable challenge. The selectors face a dilemma, weighing the options between Sarfaraz Khan and fellow debutant Rajat Patidar.

Deep Dasgupta raises concerns about Sarfaraz Khan’s selection  

Former India cricketer Deep Dasgupta has raised concerns about Sarfaraz's abilities, emphasizing the importance of performing in significant matches. Despite an impressive First-Class average, Dasgupta questions whether Sarfaraz can replicate his success in high-pressure situations. 

Talking about Sarfaraz on his YouTube channel, Deep Dasgupta said, "Credit to him that he has been in good form for the last two to three years. He scored runs recently against England A as well. He was performing consistently but there were two questions.

"The biggest question was in place of whom. We say very easily that this or that player should be there but only 11 can play and the squad can have only 15 or 16. Secondly, there was also this question and I have heard it from a few people where are the runs in big matches."

He further added, "When people talk about first-class cricket, with all due respect, you have 37 teams. You are also playing against some very average teams. I shouldn't be saying this, it will be disrespectful to some of the teams, but the quality of runs is also important. I am not saying this against Sarfaraz." 

"At times, the selectors and team management have to be convinced about you as a player and you as a talent. For example, Shubman Gill vs Sarfaraz Khan, do you think both of them will get the same number of chances?"

"No, they won't. It is very normal or natural because you see more potential in one. So you give chances based on potential. It becomes very important that the team management, selectors, and captain trust your potential, about what you can do." he concluded.