Naushad Khan, the proud father of India’s emerging batting talent Sarfaraz Khan, experienced a deeply emotional moment when his son received his maiden India cap during the ongoing third Test against England in Rajkot. Both Naushad Khan and Sarfaraz’s wife were invited onto the field for the cap presentation ceremony, where the legendary Anil Kumble presented Sarfaraz with his Test cap.
The touching scene unfolded as Sarfaraz’s father couldn’t hold back tears witnessing his son’s dream of representing the country in international cricket finally come true. After the emotional cap presentation, Naushad Khan embraced his son and kissed the India cap, expressing immense pride. He also shared a warm embrace with India captain Rohit Sharma.
Later, Naushad Khan joined the commentary box where he engaged in conversation with former India opener Aakash Chopra, offering insights into his experience. During a post-day play interview, Sarfaraz disclosed that his father had not initially planned to attend the Rajkot Test due to illness.
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In a subsequent interview, Naushad Khan echoed his son’s sentiments, revealing that he had almost decided against going to the stadium. However, India and Mumbai star Suryakumar Yadav persuaded him to be present for his son’s significant milestone.
“Suryakumar Yadav told me to attend the Rajkot game. Even till 11 am, I had no plans of coming to Rajkot, I was a little sick, you can tell from my voice. Suryakumar Yadav asked me if I was going to attend the match. I told him that ‘I don’t want Sarfaraz to feel the pressure that I am there.’ ,” shared Naushad Khan with Aajtak.
He further added, “I did not have a 100 percent guarantee if he will get the cap or not. Suryakumar explained it to me that ‘you will not get another moment like this in your life; I also had taken my parents to the Test match.’ We only got one flight ticket, and I came down to Rajkot.”
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Despite the initial uncertainty, Sarfaraz made a memorable debut, showcasing his talent with a spectacular 48-ball fifty in his first Test innings. Unfortunately, his innings was curtailed by an unfortunate run-out, but not before he scored a commendable 62 off 66 balls, adorned with nine fours and a six.
