Mumbai batsman Sarfaraz Khan opened in his first call-up for the Indian cricket team in the Test series against England. He said that at first he did not believe that he had been selected and was preparing to play in the 2024 Ranji Trophy.

All the years of hard work finally paid off for Sarfaraz Khan when he received his India call-up for the second Test against England. The batsman was named as a replacement after KL Rahul was ruled out of the second game with right quadriceps pain.

Sarfaraz Khan could also be in line to make his India debut in the Tests. Since KL Rahul is not there, he could play one of Rajat Patidar or Sarfaraz. The Mumbai batsman has been touted as the run machine in domestic cricket as he amassed huge amounts of incredibly consistent runs.

Sarfaraz Khan forced the selectors to include him in the team after his impressive knock in the match between India A and England Lions. He scored 161 off 166 to complete with 18 fours and 5 sixes and helped his team win the game. It was hard to ignore this time because of the way he had performed.

Sarfaraz Khan revealed that he had his bags packed for the Ranji Trophy and after receiving the call up for India, he couldn’t believe it. He revealed that he immediately called his father, who was in his hometown, and became emotional.

Sarfaraz Khan also revealed about his family’s joy and said that everyone at home was excited and very happy. Speaking to BCCI before the second Test against England in Vizag, he explained:

“I was preparing to play the Ranji Trophy and had left my bags packed. Suddenly I got the call and knew I had been selected. I didn’t believe it at first.

“My father was in our homeland, I called him and he was excited too. Everyone at home was happy, my wife, my mom and my dad, everyone was excited..”

My only dream has been to fulfill my father’s wish – Sarfaraz Khan

Sarfaraz Khan further spoke about his father’s dream, which is to play for India. He said that after receiving the call from him, he felt that his years of hard work had paid off and he was delighted.

He further revealed that he dreamed that his India A teammates congratulated him and he scored runs for the team. He explained:

“My only dream has been to fulfill my father’s wish of seeing me play for the Indian team. After the call, I feel that the work I have done has finally paid off and I am very happy.

I had dreamed that my India A teammates were congratulating me and shaking my hand. It was a recurring dream to play for India and score runs. As they say, everything happens for a reason.”

Sarfaraz Khan has amassed 3912 runs at an average of 69.85 in 45 FC games. The batsman has also scored 14 centuries. He would also hope to continue his form with the Indian team.