Sarfaraz Khan reveals he was promised of India selection ahead of Bangladesh series

Sarfaraz Khan has been grinding in red-ball cricket in the last few years. After playing 36 Ranji Trophy matches, he has amassed 3380 runs averaging 80.47 including the highest score of 301 not out. Not to forget, in seasons 2019-20 and 2021-22, the right-hander scored more than 900 runs each. Also, the ongoing 2022-23 season has been fruitful for the former India U19 player. However, despite this, he missed out on India’s selection on two occasions.

On the tour of Bangladesh in December last year, he was expected to get a maiden call-up. Apart from this, he was also expected to get the same call for the home series against Australia. On both occasions, Khan had to face the disappointment of being ignored. Meanwhile, during an interview, the middle-order batter revealed that he was promised the national call-up last year.

“During the Ranji Trophy final at Bangalore, when I scored a century, I met the selectors. I was told that ‘you’ll get your opportunity in Bangladesh. Be ready for that.’ Recently, I met Chetan Sharma sir (chief selector) while we were checking in at the hotel in Mumbai. He asked me not to feel disheartened, and that my time will come. Good things take time to happen. You’re very close (to an India berth). You’ll get your chance. So, when I played another important knock, I had expectations. But it’s alright,” Sarfaraz told the Times of India.

I felt lonely and cried too after the snub: Sarfaraz Khan

The 25-year-old added that he was disappointed after being ignored for the series against Australia. Khan further added that he felt lonely.

“When the team was announced and my name wasn’t there, I was very sad. Anyone in my place in this world would’ve been sad, because I had expected to be picked, but wasn’t (chosen). Yesterday, I was sad the whole day, when we travelled from Guwahati to Delhi. I was thinking about what and why it happened. I was feeling very lonely. I cried too,” he said.