Former India cricket team chief selector Krishnamachari Srikkanth explained the rationale of picking KL Rahul in India’s Test XI ahead of Sarfaraz Khan. The former cricketer’s remarks come after a BCCI official confirmed that Rahul will start ahead of Sarfaraz despite both stars being named in the squad for IND vs BAN Tests. The Karnataka batter will make his comeback to the longest format of the game for the first time since February.
‘Feel bad for Sarfaraz Khan’
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Srikkanth admitted that while he felt bad for Sarfaraz Khan, it was the nature to pave way for a big player when he returns. He went on to cite another example, pointing out that Dhruv Jurel had lost his place in the team due to the return of Rishabh Pant. Srikkanth pointed out that KL Rahul had a good record while playing overseas, noting that the selectors had the series against New Zealand and Australia in the back of their minds while making the decision.
“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.
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Sarfaraz Khan to play 2nd Duleep Trophy game
Despite being named in the squad for IND vs BAN squad, Sarfaraz Khan will be a part of India B‘s second Duleep Trophy game that begins on September 12. The BCCI confirmed that Sarfaraz would join the Indian team in Chennai after the completion of the match.
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A BCCI official on Monday stated that KL Rahul would be given preference in the XI over Sarfaraz Khan. He added that the Mumbai batter would be the first-choice to replace any injured player in the team.
“Sarfaraz has done everything right, and if an opportunity arises, he will be the first to step in,” said the official. The team management is carefully balancing the need for youth and experience as they look ahead to more significant fixtures,” a BCCI official said.
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