Sarfaraz Khan Expresses Feeling Unsupported in India Test Career

Sarfaraz Khan has spoken candidly about a perceived lack of support during his India Test career, stating his father remains his sole source of motivation. The Mumbai batter made these remarks while continuing to represent Mumbai in the Ranji Trophy, including a fifty against Railways at Brabourne Stadium.

Khan made his Test debut against England on February 15, 2024, and scored his maiden Test century during the home series against New Zealand in October 2024, a series India lost 0-3. His most recent Test appearance came in November 2024, also against New Zealand. Following this, he warmed the bench during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia without playing a game, was excluded from the India squad for the New Zealand tour, and was not considered for the England Test series in 2025, with weight management cited as a factor in his omission. He reportedly reduced his weight from 97 kg to 77 kg to re-enter contention.

He was later recalled to the Test squad for the two-match series against Sri Lanka starting August 15, 2026, as a replacement for Sai Sudharsan, who suffered a stress fracture. Despite being called to the National Cricket Academy (NCA), Khan stated he "didn't get an opportunity" there and returned to play domestic cricket for Mumbai. He questioned his continuous effort, saying, "Har subah utatha hoon, and ask myself the same question. Why should I work harder and undergo the same thing again and again. I have played for India."

Khan emphasized his father's dedication as his driving force, stating, "But when I see that my father is working hard for me, mein unko liye ab score karna chahta hoon. This is the only factor which is motivating me." He highlighted his extensive domestic record, which includes scores of 300s, 200s, and 250s, as evidence of his consistent performance, asserting, "Everyone knows that I don't have support in my life. If I have support, it is only from my father. No one has supported me in my life."

Addressing suggestions that his game is limited to home conditions, Sarfaraz cited specific performances on tours of South Africa and England, where he scored 100 runs in 60 balls against the Indian team on each occasion. He argued that a batter who scores runs in challenging overseas conditions should not struggle on rank turners at home. He concluded, "That's their look out, that's their point of view. But my job is to play cricket, and I will continue playing." His position remains that he will continue playing for Mumbai regardless of a national recall, with the Sri Lanka series representing his most recent return to the national setup.

What to watch: Sarfaraz Khan's performance in upcoming domestic and potential international fixtures.

Editor's note: The article accurately reflects the quotes and sentiments expressed by Sarfaraz Khan regarding his career frustrations and motivation.