On a tricky MS Chinnasawamy pitch, where Mumbai batters struggled to assert themselves, Sarfaraz Khan slammed another century to put his team in command against Madhya Pradesh in the Ranji Trophy final. Sarfaraz scored a gritty 134 before his departure brought an end to Mumbai’s innings, on 374.

The rising stir offered a masterclass in controlled aggression, as he batted with remarkable patience for the majority of his knock, and attacked only after Mumbai lost nine wickets. Early in the innings, Sarfaraz survived a loud leg-before shout when he got pinned in front by an in-swinger from Gaurav Yadav. Had the DRS system been available for this contest, he would have to trudge back to the pavilion.

But there was hardly a blip since then, as Sarfaraz looked at ease against the MP’s pacers. Even though batters at the other end kept losing their wickets frequently, Sarfaraz went about his business unperturbed. 

He reached his century with a glorious straight drive against Kumar Kartikeya. As soon as the ball touched the ropes, the teary-eyed Sarfaraz jumped in delight, slapped his thigh, and acknowledged the praises from the dressing room. His innings comprised of 13 fours and two towering sixes. 

It was the fourth century of the season from Sarfaraz, who started his campaign with a mammoth double century against Saurashtra. In his last twelve games, the batter has notched seven centuries and five fifties. With over 900 runs at a Bradman-Esque average of 150, Sarfaraz is currently the biggest name in domestic cricket. 

The clamour for his inclusion into the Indian Test side has gained intensity, with several fans and experts questioning the BCCI. “After 24 first class games, Sarfaraz Khan is averaging 81 and counting. Has hit 8 hundreds, latest in the Ranji final. It’s highest FC average since Sir Don Bradman for someone with over 2000 runs. If that’s not good enough to get an India call up, tell me what is! #RanjiFinal”, wrote Rajdeep Sardesai. 

”If India ‘A’ were playing anytime now, Sarfaraz Khan would be among the first 2-3 names on that team,” tweeted Harsha Bhogle.

Image Source: BCCI