Sarfaraz Khan Blasts 76-Ball Century in Front of Ajit Agarkar, VVS Laxman; Jasprit Bumrah Goes Wicketless

Though left out of India’s squad for the upcoming five-match Test series against England, right-handed batter Sarfaraz Khan is making a strong case for his return with a standout performance in the ongoing intra-squad match in Beckenham.

Playing for India A on Day 2, the 27-year-old smashed a blistering 101 off just 76 balls, laced with 15 fours and two sixes, before voluntarily retiring out. The match, being held behind closed doors, had the attention of BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar and NCA head VVS Laxman, both of whom were present at the ground.

Sarfaraz’s exclusion from the Test squad raised eyebrows, especially after a promising start to his international career. He had earlier scored 92 runs in the first unofficial Test against England Lions in Canterbury, continuing to impress with consistent domestic and India A performances.

So far, Sarfaraz has played six Tests for India, accumulating 371 runs at an average of 37.10, including a memorable 150-run innings against New Zealand in Bengaluru. However, his form dipped in the following two Tests, and he hasn’t featured in the national side since.

Despite losing 10 kg and putting in hard work to sharpen his skills—especially against swing bowling—Sarfaraz found himself out of the 18-member squad for the England series starting June 20. His exclusion, despite this dedication, has sparked conversations among fans and pundits.

Bumrah Goes Wicketless, India A Still Trail

Meanwhile, on the bowling front, Jasprit Bumrah went wicketless, conceding runs at five an over. While not ideal, the outing is not expected to affect his standing ahead of the England series. Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna picked up two wickets each, though Siraj was expensive, leaking runs at over seven an over.

Nitish Kumar Reddy also made an impact, dismissing Abhimanyu Easwaran for 39.

For India A, Sai Sudharsan contributed 38 off 60 balls (7 fours), and Ishan Kishan added 45 off 55 balls. At stumps on Day 2, India A reached 299/6, trailing the India side by 160 runs.

On Day 1, Shubman Gill and KL Rahul led the way for India with well-compiled half-centuries, setting the tone for the high-intensity warm-up fixture ahead of the England Tests.