Sarfaraz Khan: Soaring Spirits and Maiden Test Centuries

Sarfaraz Khan celebrated his maiden Test century against New Zealand, feeling ecstatic and motivated by star players like Virat Kohli. Despite his efforts, India struggled with batting collapses but amassed 462 runs. New Zealand's fast bowlers put up a dominant show, aiming to chase down 107 runs after early Indian dismissals.

Indian cricketer Sarfaraz Khan expressed elation after recording his first Test century against New Zealand at Bengaluru's M Chinnaswamy Stadium. Known for his exuberant batting style, Khan felt euphoric, likening his success to flying, as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) shared his celebratory remarks.

Khan recalled how his former Royal Challengers Bangalore teammate Virat Kohli inspired him, urging him to trust his abilities and freely play his shots. He highlighted the pride of receiving encouragement from stalwarts like Kohli and Rohit Sharma, enhancing his sense of achievement in representing India.

Despite individual triumphs, India faced challenges during the match. After a promising start in their second innings, reaching 407-3, they endured a batting collapse, losing seven wickets for just 60 runs. Nonetheless, Sarfaraz Khan's form remained solid, reaching a commendable 150, supported by Rishab Pant's 99, though KL Rahul struggled.

Key dismissals characterized India's innings post-Tea, with Ravindra Jadeja and later Ravichandran Ashwin contributing to the fall. New Zealand's bowlers, particularly Matt Henry and William O'Rourke, excelled on the challenging pitch, claiming key wickets as India ended their innings at 462.

In response, New Zealand began cautiously before bad light halted play, leaving them with 107 runs to win. Their fast-bowling unit's historic 17-wicket haul marks the most by a foreign team in India since a South African success in 2008, setting up a tight finish.

(With inputs from agencies.)