Since making his debut in the India-England Test series in February, Sarfaraz Khan has been absent from competitive cricket for five months. The 26-year-old batsman last appeared in the final Test of the series, where he scored a commendable 56 off 60 balls in India’s lone innings. Despite a strong debut, Sarfaraz’s place in the middle order is uncertain with the anticipated return of Virat Kohli and KL Rahul. Nonetheless, Sarfaraz has adhered to an intensive training regimen and aims to excel in the ongoing Buchi Babu cricket tournament.
“There is no off-season for me,” Sarfaraz told The Indian Express, discussing his rigorous fitness routine. “I wake up at 4:15 am and begin my day with long-distance running. By the end of the month, I was running 5 km in 30 minutes, which significantly improved my fitness.”
Following his morning runs, Sarfaraz dedicates time to the gym. “The first half of the day is reserved for fitness and fielding drills, while I focus on batting in the evening,” he added.
Sarfaraz faced criticism for his physique and fitness before his selection, but he quickly dispelled concerns by amassing 200 runs in his initial three Tests.
With the World Test Championship 2023-25 cycle underway and two Tests against Bangladesh scheduled for September, Sarfaraz’s spot in the XI remains uncertain. Nevertheless, he is committed to his preparation, currently representing Mumbai in the Buchi Babu Invitation Cricket Tournament 2024 and set to compete for India B in the revamped Duleep Trophy.
Sarfaraz emphasized the importance of match practice. “In Mumbai, due to the rains, practice has been limited to facing bowling machines and side-arm throwers indoors. Batting indoors doesn’t prepare you for the challenges of turf wickets, which is why match practice is crucial,” he explained.
Despite averaging nearly 70 in first-class cricket and having to wait until February 2024 for his Test debut, Sarfaraz maintains a pragmatic approach. “I have zero expectations… But I’ll be ready if the opportunity arises. That’s how I’ve approached my career, and I see no reason to change,” he concluded.
