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The Shubman Gill-led India National Cricket Team has a fresh selection headache before the two-match Test series opener against Sri Lanka in Galle. Sarfaraz Khan has returned to the Test squad after Sai Sudharsan was ruled out with injury, but his arrival has created a fresh fight for the No. 6 position.
However, former India spinner Murali Kartik has backed Dhruv Jurel. He feels Jurel offers better balance to the team and should get the nod ahead of Sarfaraz at No. 6 for the first Test, starting on August 15 at the Galle International Cricket Stadium in Galle. Amid this, Mohammad Kaif picks Sarfaraz Khan over Dhruv Jurel for Sri Lanka Tests, explains big reason.
Sarfaraz Khan’s spin-batting strength could tempt India in Sri Lanka
Sarfaraz Khan has been a strong performer in red-ball cricket and is especially dangerous against spin. His footwork and sweep shots can be useful on turning pitches like the ones expected in Sri Lanka. But Kartik feels Sarfaraz joined the squad as a replacement, so the Indian team management should consider this point before making any changes to the original plan.
The well-known broadcaster has pointed out that keeping players confident is really important, and they should not be kept on the bench because another batter has been added to the squad. He said Jurel can contribute with the bat and also gives India another wicketkeeping option.
Murali Kartik picks Dhruv Jurel ahead of Sarfaraz Khan for Galle Test
However, there is no doubt that Sarfaraz could become a very dangerous option if the Galle pitch starts turning sharply. His ability to use his feet against spinners and play sweeps can make life difficult for the bowlers, but Kartik feels India should look at the bigger picture.
Murali Kartik said on Sony Sports Network, “Sarfaraz has done nothing wrong. He is coming into the team as a replacement player. The messaging is important; the players should feel secure about their places. Dhruv Jurel is also an important wicketkeeper. For me he should be in the playing XI over Sarfaraz Khan.”
Mohammed Siraj turns hairdresser for Sarfaraz Khan in Sri Lanka
Meanwhile, the Indian cricket team is enjoying some relaxed time in Colombo before the first Test against Sri Lanka. After the team’s training sessions, Sarfaraz Khan, Shubman Gill, and Rishabh Pant decided to spend some time at a local salon.
The viral moment came when Mohammed Siraj decided to take charge of Sarfaraz’s haircut. Siraj did not simply pick up the trimmer and start cutting. He first spoke to the salon’s hairstylist, Chaturanga, and learned how to use the machine properly.
After that, Siraj started styling Sarfaraz’s hair with the batter sitting quietly in the chair. The fiery fast bowler carefully worked on Sarfaraz’s hair while the others enjoyed the unusual scene. Siraj handled most of the trimming, but he eventually needed professional help.
Chaturanga finally completed the haircut. The light-hearted salon visit went viral on social media. Notably, Siraj will lead the Indian pace attack featuring Prasidh Krishna, Gurnoor Brar, and Jammu and Kashmir pacer Auqib Nabi, as Jasprit Bumrah will miss the two-match Test series in Sri Lanka. Amid this, Kapil Dev urges BCCI to manage fast bowlers’ workload amid India’s injury woes.
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