Gautam Gambhir, Shubman Gill urged to be ‘clear in messaging’ with Sarfaraz Khan: ‘He won’t waste time’

Sarfaraz Khan’s exile from the Indian Test squad is over, with the right-handed batter recalled for the two-Test series against Sri Lanka after Sai Sudharsan was ruled out with an injury.

However, Sarfaraz is unlikely to walk straight into the playing XI for the first Test in Galle, beginning August 15. The key selection debate is now between Sarfaraz and Dhruv Jurel, with former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin backing Jurel to get the nod.

Sarfaraz, 28, last played for India during the three-Test series against New Zealand. He announced his return with a stunning 150 in the first Test but struggled in the next two matches. He was subsequently left out of the playing XI during the Australia series and later dropped from the squad.

His prolonged absence sparked speculation over the reasons behind his exclusion, including reports that the team management had doubts about his technique in overseas conditions.

Ashwin, however, believes the team management should be transparent with Sarfaraz if such concerns exist. Speaking on his YouTube channel Ash Ki Baat, he said captain Shubman Gill and head coach Gautam Gambhir should clearly communicate the batter’s role and help him focus on becoming a specialist in subcontinental conditions.

“The messaging is very important for Sarfaraz. If you feel he is a suspect in certain conditions, you need to give him clarity. You need to tell him that he can serve the team in sub-continental conditions,” Ashwin said.

He added that Sarfaraz could become a “king” in subcontinental conditions if given a clearly defined role, allowing him to focus on countering spin and building his Test career.

Why Sarfaraz could be an option in Galle

Sarfaraz’s ability against spin makes him a potentially attractive option in Galle. The Mumbai batter is comfortable using his feet against spinners and is also known for accelerating the scoring rate.

His proficiency with the sweep shot could also help him disrupt the rhythm of Sri Lanka’s spinners. Jurel, meanwhile, has produced mixed results and struggled to make an impact in the warm-up game against Sri Lanka XI.

Sarfaraz also has considerable experience batting at No. 5, meaning a move to No. 6 would not be unfamiliar territory. His prolific domestic record for Mumbai and the West Zone further strengthens his case.

Despite that, Ashwin believes Jurel is currently ahead in the pecking order, leaving Sarfaraz with another wait for his opportunity in the Sri Lanka series.