Ex-India batter questions Sarfaraz’s exile, backs him over Jurel for SL Tests

Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif has welcomed the return of Sarfaraz Khan to India's Test squad and endorsed him for the upcoming series against Sri Lanka. Kaif believes Sarfaraz's ability against spin could make him a better option than Dhruv Jurel in the conditions expected for the first Test in Galle. Sarfaraz was added to the squad to replace Sai Sudharsan and joined the team in Sri Lanka on Monday.

Kaif questioned his exclusion from the Test setup after his initial stint, emphasizing that performance was not the reason for his absence. He praised the decision-makers for bringing Sarfaraz back, confident that his skills against spin could be valuable in the series. Kaif urged Sarfaraz to perform well if he is selected for the first Test, stating that he should be given the opportunity if he can play well.

The bigger question is whether Sarfaraz can start in India's XI; Kaif believes he should, although he acknowledged the team management might favor Jurel due to his existing involvement with the squad. If this trend continues, Sarfaraz may have to wait. However, Kaif remains confident in Sarfaraz's ability to play spin, particularly in the latter stages of the Test, where his range of strokes would be advantageous.

Jurel's recent poor form has also opened the door for Sarfaraz in Kaif's eyes. India's two-Test series against Sri Lanka begins on August 15 in Galle, with the No. 6 spot likely to be a key selection point.