Sarfaraz Khan’s long-awaited international debut on home turf at the Wankhede Stadium didn’t go as planned, as he was dismissed for a duck in a tough encounter with New Zealand’s Ajaz Patel. The left-arm spinner delivered an almost unplayable ball that spun sharply and bounced more than expected.
Sarfaraz, known for his solid technique and adaptability, attempted to defend the delivery, but the ball clipped his glove on the way to wicketkeeper Tom Blundell. The umpire raised his finger immediately, confirming a fourth-ball duck for the 27-year-old.
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This disappointing start was a rare sight for Sarfaraz, who boasts an impressive record at Wankhede Stadium. The crowd, anticipating a memorable knock from their local star, fell silent as he walked back to the pavilion. Among the spectators were his father, Naushad Khan, and his younger brother, Musheer Khan, both prominent supporters and key influences in his cricket journey.
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Watching Sarfaraz return without scoring, they couldn’t hide their disappointment. This debut match carried high hopes for Sarfaraz, who has consistently showcased exceptional skill in domestic cricket, making him one of India’s most promising middle-order batters.
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Yet, international cricket often brings unique challenges, and Ajaz Patel’s sharp spin was a reminder of the demanding levels of skill required at this stage. Despite the setback, Sarfaraz’s talent and resilience are well recognized, and fans, along with his family, are hopeful he’ll make a strong comeback in the series. The crowd at Wankhede, alongside his family, awaits the moment he can prove himself at the highest level, just as he has in the domestic arena.
