Indian cricket team players and support staff showered Sarfaraz Khan with a standing ovation after the young batter registered his maiden international hundred in the ongoing first Test against New Zealand at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. This significant moment came on Day 4 of the match when Sarfaraz hit a sublime boundary off Tim Southee to bring up his century, a knock that was pivotal in India’s fightback after a dismal start to the game.
The moment was celebrated by the entire Indian team, including star players like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Ravichandran Ashwin, and Yashasvi Jaiswal, all of whom were seen applauding Sarfaraz’s remarkable achievement. Head coach Gautam Gambhir, alongside the support staff, was also visibly proud, beaming as they joined in the standing ovation from the dressing room.
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It was a special moment for the 25-year-old, whose perseverance and mental strength had finally paid off on the big stage. Sarfaraz Khan’s century was a product of sheer determination. India, under pressure from New Zealand’s massive first innings total of 402, needed someone to anchor the innings. Sarfaraz stepped up to the challenge with grace.
— Kirkit Expert (@expert42983) October 19, 2024
— Kirkit Expert (@expert42983) October 19, 2024
Rohit, Kohli & all Indian team standing for SARFARAZ KHAN 👊 pic.twitter.com/L6LXYsTkbV
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) October 19, 2024
Facing a fiery New Zealand bowling attack, he played with remarkable composure and showcased an excellent shot selection, bringing India back into the contest. His century came from a well-timed push through the covers, sending the ball racing past the infield, marking a memorable milestone in his career.
As soon as the ball crossed the ropes, Sarfaraz removed his helmet and raised his bat high, acknowledging the applause from his teammates, the crowd, and the coaching staff. The young batter also took a moment to look up at the sky, soaking in the magnitude of his achievement. His hundred came at a crucial juncture, and it was clear that Sarfaraz’s innings had instilled hope in the Indian camp.
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With this knock, Sarfaraz became only the second Indian batter to score both a duck and a century in the same Test against New Zealand, replicating Shikhar Dhawan’s feat from 2014. Moreover, this was the 22nd instance of an Indian recording both a duck and a hundred in a single Test, the last being Shubman Gill against Bangladesh.
Sarfaraz’s century lifted India past 300 runs, bringing them within 40 runs of New Zealand’s lead. Now, with momentum on their side, India will aim to set a challenging target to keep their chances alive in this thrilling Test match.
