Sher Ke Muh Mein Khoon Lag Gaya Hai: Sarfaraz Khan's School Coach Claims Maiden Test Century is Just One of Many Such Feats - Exclusive

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In his debut Test against England at Rajkot, Sarfaraz Khan made an immediate impact, scoring 62 and 68. He continued to impress in his third Test at Dharamsala, registering a solid 56.

The Mumbaikar, known for piling up runs in domestic cricket, had fought his way into the national team. However, despite his promise in the early matches, a defining, standout innings had eluded the right-handed middle-order batter.

Fast forward six months, in the Bengaluru Test, Sarfaraz faced criticism after being dismissed for a three-ball duck in the first innings and not making the opportunity count as he replaced Shubman Gill, who missed the game due to a niggle. Also Read: Sarfaraz hits India's 550th Test hundred

The 26-year-old came in with India struggling at 9/2, and his shot selection drew the attention of critics as he too joined his teammates with just 10 runs on the board. The entire Indian lineup collapsed for just 46 in 31.2 overs, and scrutiny of every top-order batter, including Sarfaraz, was inevitable.

But the second innings was a different story. Sarfaraz silenced his critics with a determined performance, scoring his maiden Test century and converting it into a remarkable 150. His counter-attacking style put the New Zealand bowlers on the defensive.

Sarfaraz's feat marked the 22nd instance of an Indian batter scoring both a duck and a century in the same Test match. The last player to achieve this was Gill against Bangladesh in Chennai the previous month. Sarfaraz was eventually dismissed for 150 off 195 deliveries, an innings that included 18 boundaries and three sixes.

Sarfaraz's school coach, Raju Pathak - who has mentored players like Prithvi Shaw, Armaan Jaffer, and Yashasvi Jaiswal at Rizvi Springfield - spoke to MyKhel about the batter's breakthrough century. He praised Sarfaraz's resilience and highlighted his belief in Sarfaraz's potential to play for India.

Pathak commended Sarfaraz for seizing the opportunity after the disappointing first innings. "He got dismissed for a duck in the first innings, but so did four others. The conditions were challenging in that session, and our batters couldn't execute their plans well. I am sure Sarfaraz must have been frustrated with himself after that dismissal," Pathak remarked.

"His comeback in the second innings speaks volumes about his mental strength. It wasn't an easy situation when he walked in, but he thrives in tough circumstances."

Pathak, who has closely observed Sarfaraz's journey alongside his father Naushad, emphasised the strong foundation built in Mumbai's competitive club cricket environment. "Sarfaraz and Yashasvi are used to handling pressure because of the tough club cricket culture in Mumbai. International cricketers compete in these tournaments, and the competition level is high. Sarfaraz has consistently proven his ability to deliver under pressure."

Pathak highlighted the importance of Sarfaraz's natural attacking game during his century. "He played at the merit of the ball and didn't allow the bowlers to settle. His first fifty came quickly, showcasing his intent to dominate. Those three sixes against Ajaz Patel forced New Zealand to change their strategy and bring in the pacers. That's when the game began turning in India's favour."

Pathak described Sarfaraz as a player who understands the game well and always prioritises the team's needs. "He is known for playing long innings and converting starts into daddy hundreds. His philosophy is simple: focus on the present and move on from the past. 'Kal bhool jao, aaj mein jiyo' (Forget yesterday, live in today) is what drives him."

Sarfaraz seconded the observation during the press conference at the end of the day's play and said, "Main kal ko bhool jane me vishwas karta hoon. Future ke bare me nahi sochta.(I try and live in the present and what is in my hands. I don't think much about the future.)"

The coach also credited Naushad Khan, Sarfaraz's father, for his unwavering dedication to shaping his sons' cricketing journey. "Naushad has sacrificed a lot for his sons' careers. He left his job with the Railways to train Sarfaraz and his brothers. Even today, if Sarfaraz is at home and has some time, Naushad takes him to the nets for training. That's how dedicated they are."

When asked whether Sarfaraz's performance in Bengaluru could secure him a place in the squad for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia, Pathak expressed optimism. "He's doing everything in his power-scoring runs and rescuing the team in tough situations. He deserves a spot on the Australia tour, but it ultimately depends on the selectors and the team management. I believe he's ready for bigger challenges now. 'Sher ke muh mein khoon lag gaya hai' (The lion has tasted blood)," Pathak concluded.

Sarfaraz Khan's journey from domestic circuit stalwart to making a mark on the international stage is a testament to his grit, determination, and the support of those who believed in him. As he eyes future opportunities, his maiden Test century stands as a reminder of his potential to shine on the biggest stage.