3 reasons why India should include Sarfaraz Khan in their playing XI during New Zealand Tests

India are gearing up to face New Zealand in the first Test of a three-match series, slated to be played at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru from October 16-20.

After the opening Test in Bengaluru, the teams will head to Pune for the second Test, scheduled from October 24-28 at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium. The series will wrap up with the third and final Test at Mumbai’s iconic Wankhede Stadium, taking place from November 1-5.

Amid discussions about India’s playing XI, one name stands out: Sarfaraz Khan.

Here are three compelling reasons why Sarfaraz should be included in India’s playing XI during New Zealand Tests:

1. Exceptional domestic performance

Sarfaraz has been a standout performer in domestic cricket, particularly noted for his impressive double century in the 2024 Irani Cup. This performance showcased his ability to play long innings and score under pressure, making him a strong candidate for the No. 6 position in the batting order. His consistent run-scoring ability in domestic matches demonstrates that he can handle the rigours of Test cricket effectively.

2. Ability to handle spin

New Zealand have historically struggled against spin bowling, as evidenced by their recent performances in Sri Lanka. Sarfaraz’s proficiency against spin could be a strategic advantage for India, especially on home soil where spin plays a crucial role. Including him would not only bolster the batting lineup but also provide a player who can navigate challenging spin conditions effectively.

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3. Filling the gap left by KL Rahul

With KL Rahul’s recent form being a topic of debate, Sarfaraz presents an opportunity to inject fresh energy into the middle order. Although Rahul brings experience with nearly 3,000 runs in Tests, his recent performances have not been as impactful as expected. Sarfaraz’s inclusion could provide a much-needed boost and allow India to capitalize on his current form, potentially leading to higher scores in critical middle-order situations.

As the team looks to build on their recent series sweep over Bangladesh, integrating fresh talent like Sarfaraz could be pivotal in securing victory against New Zealand.

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