Former England star Kevin Pietersen has heaped praise on Indian batter Sarfaraz Khan for his remarkable physical transformation. Sarfaraz, who has been a dominant force in India’s domestic cricket for years, reportedly shed 17kg in the lead-up to the upcoming season—a shift that’s earned widespread attention and admiration across the cricketing fraternity.
Despite his consistent domestic form, Sarfaraz has struggled to secure a regular place in the Indian Test side. He made his long-awaited debut earlier this year against England but has remained on the fringes since. Critics have often pointed to his fitness as a barrier to full-time inclusion, but his recent transformation seems to silence that narrative.
Pietersen took to social media to applaud Sarfaraz’s hard work, writing: “Outstanding effort, young man! Huge congrats, and I’m sure it’s going to lead to better and more consistent performances on the field. I love the time you’ve spent reorganising your priorities! LFG! 🚀 Can someone show Prithvi this, please? It can be done! Strong body, strong mind.”
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The post quickly went viral, especially after Sarfaraz shared a photo from a gym session, showcasing his lean frame. Fans flooded the comment sections with support, celebrating not only his dedication but also his hunger to break into the Indian team again.
Outstanding effort, young man! Huge congrats and I’m sure it’s going to lead to better and more consistent performances on the field. I love the time you’ve spent reorganising your priorities!
LFG! 🚀
Can someone show Prithvi this please?
It can be done!
Strong body, strong… https://t.co/U6KbUXlfVf— Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) July 21, 2025
Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh also weighed in, expressing disappointment over Sarfaraz’s omission from the Test squad for the England tour. “I was shocked not seeing his name in the squad. He’s got the will to make a comeback. Don’t be disheartened—your time will come,” said Harbhajan.
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Meanwhile, Prithvi Shaw—whom Pietersen indirectly referred to—continues to look for a fresh start. The once highly-touted opener has moved from Mumbai to represent Maharashtra in domestic cricket. In June, he was granted an NOC to make the switch. “I believe joining Maharashtra will help me grow further. I’m grateful to MCA for their support,” Shaw said.
Sarfaraz’s transformation story is not just about fitness—it’s a statement of intent.
