Naushad Khan commented on Sarfaraz Khan’s debut, stating that besides hard work and self-belief, he advised his son to remain disciplined despite being repeatedly overlooked by selectors.
Despite consistently performing well in domestic cricket, Sarfaraz Khan’s father’s hopes were shattered session after session due to his son’s neglect by selectors. However, when his son was handed the Test cap on Thursday, tears of joy welled up in his eyes. Sarfaraz’s father and mentor, Naushad Khan, couldn’t control his tears as the batsman was awarded the prestigious cap by Indian cricketing legend Anil Kumble.
Reflecting on this special moment while speaking to ‘BCCI.TV,’ Naushad stated that Sarfaraz’s case proves that there is always a ray of hope. “Initially, when I used to see Sarfaraz working hard, I used to wonder why my dream wasn’t coming true. But after receiving the Test cap, my thoughts changed for all those children who are working hard,” said Naushad. He added, “For Sarfaraz, it was essential to continue working hard, maintain discipline, and never lose hope. Time will come when things will work on their own. His job was just to work hard, maintain discipline, and not lose hope.” Sarfaraz had scored 62 runs in 66 balls during his debut, but was unfortunately run out due to a misunderstanding.
Sarfaraz has accumulated numerous runs in domestic cricket year after year, yet he was included in the team for the first time just before the second Test in Visakhapatnam. Ahead of the second Test, Sarfaraz had said, “I used to think repeatedly about when I would be included in the team. Tears would come to my eyes every time. My father only told me to keep working hard; no one can stop you. I think trust and discipline are essential.”
He said, “I had dreamed that my Indian ‘A’ teammates were congratulating me. Securing a place in the Indian team among such a large population is a moment of pride. More than that, I am happy for my father.” On this occasion, Kumble, while giving Sarfaraz the cap, said, “Sarfaraz, the way you have progressed, we are really proud of you. Whatever you have achieved, I am confident that your father and family will be very proud. I know you have worked hard. This is the beginning of your long career. Only 310 people have played before you. Best wishes to you.” Besides Sarfaraz, Uttar Pradesh wicketkeeper-batsman Dhruv Jurel was also handed his Test cap. Jurel was awarded the cap by former Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Dinesh Karthik.
