In the first match of the three-match Test series between India and New Zealand at Bengaluru’s M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, although the Indian team faced defeat, several players’ performances impressed everyone. One of the standout performances was by Sarfaraz Khan, who made a remarkable comeback to India’s playing XI after a long time, scoring a brilliant 150 runs.
While Sarfaraz couldn’t open his account in the first innings, he made up for it in the second innings with his 150-run knock. This outstanding performance has now benefited Sarfaraz in the latest ICC batting rankings, where he made a significant leap.
Sarfaraz climbs 31 places, surpasses Rahul:
In the latest ICC batting rankings, Sarfaraz Khan has jumped 31 places, thanks to his 150-run innings, moving up to the 53rd position with 509 rating points. On the other hand, KL Rahul’s poor performance in the Bengaluru Test has cost him dearly, as he dropped 10 places, now ranking 59th, with 498 rating points. Notably, Axar Patel also shares the same position with KL Rahul. In terms of Indian batsmen in the latest ICC rankings, Ravindra Jadeja has also slipped five places.
Sarfaraz may be dropped from the playing XI for Pune Test:
The second Test of the series between India and New Zealand will be held in Pune from October 24. Significant changes in India’s playing XI are expected. Shubman Gill, who missed the first Test, is likely to make a comeback. Meanwhile, team management’s statements indicate that KL Rahul might retain his spot, which could lead to Sarfaraz Khan being dropped from the playing XI again.