Indian debutant Sarfaraz Khan showcased his talent with a remarkable 62-run innings against England in Rajkot on the first day of the third IND vs ENGTest match. Despite being run out, Sarfaraz’s performance left spectators convinced that he had more runs to offer.
His father, Naushad Khan, witnessed the memorable moment of Sarfaraz receiving his first Test cap, overwhelmed with emotions, sharing a heartwarming hug with his son on the field.
Naushad initially hesitated to attend the match, fearing added pressure on Sarfaraz, coupled with his own health concerns.
“Initially, I thought I wouldn’t come as that would put Sarfaraz under some kind of pressure, and apart from that I also had a bit of a cold. But Surya’s message almost made me melt,” Naushad said.
However, a persuasive message from India’s star batsman Suryakumar Yadav convinced him otherwise. Suryakumar shared his own experience of having his parents present during his Test debut, urging Naushad not to miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
“I do understand your emotions. But trust me, when I made my Test debut (last year in March against Australia in Nagpur) and was receiving my Test cap, my father and mother were just behind.”
“And that moment was something beyond special. These moments don’t come too often. So I would suggest that you must go,” said Suryakumar in his message.
“After this message from Surya, I couldn’t stop myself from coming. Just took a pill and came here yesterday,” Naushad revealed.
Moved by Suryakumar’s words, Naushad made the spontaneous decision to fly to Rajkot, despite feeling under the weather. His presence in the stands added to the emotional atmosphere, as Sarfaraz’s family watched him excel on the field. Naushad’s dual role as a father and coach was evident in his tearful yet proud demeanour throughout the day.
Sarfaraz’s swift fifty, achieved in just 48 balls, propelled India to a commanding total on the opening day of the Test match, leaving a lasting impression on spectators and garnering praise for his skill and composure under pressure.
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