Wed Oct 02 22:57:10 UTC 2024: ## Sarfaraz Khan Blazes Double Century in Irani Cup, Sends a Message to Team India
**Hyderabad:** Young Mumbai batsman Sarfaraz Khan has announced himself with a stunning double century in the ongoing Irani Cup, sending a strong message to the Indian selectors ahead of the upcoming New Zealand tour.
Playing against Rest of India, Sarfaraz smashed a remarkable 221 runs off 276 balls, adorned with 25 fours and 4 sixes, becoming the first batsman to score a double century for Mumbai in the Irani Cup.
He also became the fourth youngest batsman to achieve this feat in the tournament’s history, surpassing the likes of Prithvi Shaw, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Gunwant Goswami.
Sarfaraz reached his century off 150 balls and completed his double century in just another 103 deliveries, demonstrating his extraordinary talent and determination.
Mumbai, thanks to Sarfaraz’s brilliance, were comfortably placed at 536/9 at the end of the second day’s play.
While Sarfaraz was the star of the day, Mumbai’s captain Ajinkya Rahane narrowly missed out on a century, finishing on 97. Shreyas Iyer and Tushar Kotetiyan also contributed with fifties.
Despite being selected for the recent two-Test series against Bangladesh, Sarfaraz didn’t get an opportunity to showcase his skills on the international stage. He was released from the team for the first Test due to the Duleep Trophy and then for the second Test for the Irani Cup.
However, this double century could well be the statement he needed to earn a place in the Indian team for the three-Test series against New Zealand, which starts on October 16th.
The selectors are likely to take notice of Sarfaraz’s sensational performance and his impressive recent form, making him a strong contender for a spot in the national squad.
First Piper 