India struggles in the ongoing India vs New Zealand 3rd Test as New Zealand's left-arm spinner Ajaz Patel claims his career's sixth Test fifer and the Indian batting lineup falters on Day 2. Despite valiant efforts from Rishabh Pant and Shubman Gill, India falls short in their attempt to gain a lead against the strong New Zealand bowling attack. With India already losing the Test series, they will have to work hard to avoid a clean-sweep at home.
Sarfaraz Khan Snubbed Amidst India's Batting Woes Against New Zealand
In the ongoing third Test between India and New Zealand in Indore, the spotlight has fallen on Sarfaraz Khan's absence from the Indian team. Despite his impressive performances for Mumbai in domestic cricket, Khan has once again been overlooked by the national selectors.
This decision has sparked controversy among fans and pundits alike, particularly in light of India's struggles against New Zealand's left-arm spinner, Ajaz Patel. Patel claimed his sixth Test fifer in Indore, exposing the Indian batting lineup's vulnerability to quality spin bowling.
Background
Sarfaraz Khan, 25, is a talented middle-order batsman who has consistently delivered for Mumbai in the Ranji Trophy. In the 2022-23 season, he scored 982 runs in 11 matches at an average of 122.75, including three centuries.
Despite his consistent performances, Khan has been unable to break into the Indian Test team. He has played only two Tests, both against Bangladesh in Bangladesh in 2022. In those matches, he scored 22 and 37.
Criticisms of the Selection
Critics of Khan's exclusion argue that he deserves a chance to prove himself at the highest level. They point to his outstanding record in domestic cricket and his ability to play spin bowling well.
According to former India opener Virender Sehwag, "If you have scored 900 runs consistently over the last four-five years, you should be given an opportunity."
Selectors' Rationale
The selectors have defended their decision, stating that they are backing the current playing XI. They believe that the team has the potential to perform well against New Zealand and that Khan will have to wait for his opportunity.
Chief selector Chetan Sharma said, "Sarfaraz Khan has been scoring a lot of runs in domestic cricket, but we thought the team that played in the first two Tests had the potential to do well."
Top 5 FAQs
1. Why was Sarfaraz Khan dropped for the third Test?
The selectors have not publicly stated the specific reason for Khan's exclusion, but they have indicated that they are backing the current playing XI.
2. Is India struggling against spin bowling?
Yes, India has struggled against spin bowling in recent Test matches. Ajaz Patel claimed six wickets in the first innings of the third Test, and India has also struggled against R Ashwin and Nathan Lyon in the recent past.
3. Is Sarfaraz Khan a better batsman than the players in the current Indian Test team?
It is difficult to say definitively whether Khan is a better batsman than the players currently in the Indian Test team. He has a good record in domestic cricket, but he has not had the same level of success at international level.
4. Will Sarfaraz Khan ever play Test cricket for India?
It is possible that Sarfaraz Khan will play Test cricket for India in the future. However, he will need to continue to perform well in domestic cricket and prove that he is capable of succeeding at the highest level.
5. Who are the top performers for India in the ongoing Test match against New Zealand?
Rishabh Pant and Shubman Gill have been the top performers for India in the ongoing Test match against New Zealand. Pant scored a fighting 88 in the first innings, while Gill scored 52.
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