Indian middle-order batter Sarfaraz Khan was seen practising in the nets ahead of the IND vs BAN Test, which begins in Kanpur on September 27. However, his participation in the match remains uncertain as he is also named in the squad for the Irani Cup. Along with Sarfaraz, wicket-keeper Dhruv Jurel and pacer Yash Dayal have also been named in the Rest of India squad.
The BCCI has clarified that players selected for the Irani Cup, including Sarfaraz Khan, will only participate in the domestic tournament if they are not chosen for the second Test playing XI. This decision allows for adjustments based on team requirements. Sarfaraz Khan didn’t play in the first Test, but his presence in the squad and participation in training indicate that he might be considered for the second Test.
Sarfaraz in the Mumbai team
Sarfaraz Khan has been selected for the Mumbai team, the reigning Ranji champions, for the Irani Cup, while Dhruv Jurel and Yash Dayal are part of the Rest of India squad. Reports suggest that if Rishabh Pant suffers any injury, KL Rahul may step in as wicketkeeper, likely freeing Jurel for the domestic competition.
No players featured in first test
On Tuesday, the BCCI announced that Ruturaj Gaikwad will captain the Rest of India team, which will face the Ranji Trophy champions, Mumbai, in the Irani Cup from October 1 to 5 in Lucknow. All three players—Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel, and Yash Dayal—are currently part of the Indian squad for the ongoing Test series against Bangladesh. None of them featured in the first Test, making their selection for the Irani Cup likely.
