Sarfaraz Khan set to get Test cap at Rajkot, another debutant also expected to be in playing XI

After averaging over 100 for three successive domestic seasons, Sarfaraz Khanis all set to get a Test cap. With middle-order mainstay KL Rahul failing to clear the fitness test, the Mumbai batsman is expected to be in the playing XI for the third Test at Rajkot.

‘Sarfaraz will be making his debut. As KL has been ruled out for this Test, Sarfaraz will be getting his first game,’ a source confirmed.

Sarfaraz has been toiling hard since the past few years. Even though selectors picked Rajat Patidar ahead of him after Virat Kohli’s withdrawal from the first two Tests, the 26-year-old didn’t lose hope. A day after the selection day snub, he scored 161 against England Lions.

‘The game is all about patience. If we have to play Test cricket, we have to be patient. In life, there are times when we rush ourselves. I would get emotional about my wait to get into the team. My father always told me that keep working hard and you’ll be unstoppable. Having self belief and patience is very important,’ he told the bcci.tv on his Test call.

‘More than myself, I am happy for my father. In a country that boasts such a huge population, it is a proud feeling to be part of the Indian team,’ he added.