IND vs NZ: Sarfaraz Khan Explains How Team India Can Turn the Tables on Day 5 against Kiwis

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Bengaluru, Oct 19: Sarfaraz Khan's maiden Test century was a declaration, not just of his talent but also of his grit, and he believes that India's fight is far from over despite New Zealand needing just 107 runs to secure a rare Test win on Indian soil.

For Sarfaraz, who has weathered personal and professional challenges to reach this point, the lesson remains never to give up. Sher Ke Muh Mein Khoon Lag Gaya Hai: Sarfaraz Khan's School Coach - Exclusive

Speaking at the post-day press conference, the 26-year-old reflected on his journey from Mumbai's Shivaji Park to the Test arena and emphasized the pride he felt in raising his bat for India.

"I felt good since it was my maiden century playing for India. It's been a dream since childhood. Extremely happy," he said, his voice thick with emotion as he credited his father, Naushad Khan, for keeping him motivated through the highs and lows.

Taming the Bounce: Sarfaraz's Answer to tall O'Rourke

Sarfaraz's innings was a masterclass in adaptability, particularly against New Zealand pacer William O'Rourke, who dismissed Virat Kohli with a sharp bouncer earlier. However, Sarfaraz, honed on Mumbai's bouncy pitches, played O'Rourke differently, expertly using upper cuts and late cuts to send the ball racing past point and third man.

"They were trying to bowl short at me outside the off-stump, and I simply played accordingly. I like playing balls that rise high. It was fun," Sarfaraz explained with a smile. His off-side play was particularly productive-83 of his 150 runs came through that area, with 58 runs carved between point and deep third man.

He showcased his street-smart cricketing instincts by scoring 39 off O'Rourke alone, dispatching six crisp boundaries, turning what could have been a tricky challenge into an enjoyable session at the crease.

Key Partnership with Pant

Sarfaraz also displayed his maturity during his 177-run partnership with Rishabh Pant, a critical stand that gave India hope despite their early stumbles. Noticing that Pant was struggling after taking a blow to the knee, Sarfaraz shielded him from the pacers early on, taking on the responsibility to counter the Kiwi attack himself.

"I tried to give Pant more strike when the spinners were on, knowing that he could attack them. At the same time, I was countering the pace attack to keep the pressure from both ends," Sarfaraz said, chuckling at how well their plan worked until it didn't.

Despite their efforts, India lost seven wickets for just 54 runs in the final session, collapsing for 462 and setting New Zealand a modest target of 112.

"The Game Is Not Out of Our Hands Yet"

Even with the visitors just 107 runs away from a historic victory in India, Sarfaraz remains optimistic about India's chances. The surface at Chinnaswamy, he believes, still has something to offer.

"It's not an easy wicket to bat on. The ball is still cutting in and out. If we manage to get two or three early wickets, they could collapse like we did," he remarked confidently, hinting at a potential twist in the tale.

Sarfaraz's Mantra to Success

Sarfaraz's cricketing journey has been defined by perseverance-overcoming criticism for his fitness, handling scrutiny on social media, and embracing setbacks along the way. His philosophical approach to cricket reflects this experience.

"I always keep in mind that tomorrow is uncertain. In the past, I used to think too much about the future, and it affected my present. Now, I try to stay in the moment," he shared, revealing a more introspective side.

That sense of staying in the present and fighting until the end is what Sarfaraz hopes will guide India on the final day.

"It's still possible. If we start well with the ball, they will feel the pressure. Anything can happen in cricket," Sarfaraz concluded. As the fifth day beckons, India's hopes may rest on that very sentiment-embracing the unpredictable and fighting to the last ball.