“I Would’ve Left with Sarfaraz”: Shastri’s Direct Reaction to Jadeja’s Promotion to No. 5

As the third Test match between India and England began in Rajkot, the attention was mostly on the Indian middle order, which includes three new players: Dhruv Jurel, Sarfaraz Khan, and Rajat Patidar. Even though Patidar has only played one Test, the other two had their debuts before to the action taking place at Niranjan Shah Stadium.

For the two young people who have been working hard on the home circuit for years, it was a moment to treasure. When renowned spinner and former captain Anil Kumble gave Sarafarz his hat, Sarafarz’s father, Naushad, was on the field and couldn’t contain his emotions.

Graeme Swann, a former England spinner, and Ravi Shastri, a former India head coach, engaged in an insightful conversation on Sarfaraz Khan’s accomplishments on the local circuit. With 45 games played, the Mumbai batsman has amassed over 4,000 runs and 14 centuries. However, it’s noteworthy to note that he has had a very strong record the last two Ranji Trophy seasons. With an average of over 150, he amassed over 900 runs, and Swann complimented him on his achievements during the commentary.

“There’s no denying that this young man has been hitting many home runs. Take a look at that—154 on average. Heave heave. “Some of those figures are completely insane,” Swann said on broadcast.

“He’s been banging at the door for some time now,” Shastri said. He was really waiting for the selectors to review those results and grant him admittance, which they did today.

Earlier, the hosts chose to bat first on a Rajkot strip that was batting-friendly, which put them in a precarious scenario. After Mark Wood dismissed Rajat Patidar (5) and Yashasvi Jaiswal (10) in the opening six overs, Tom Hartley removed Shubman Gill (0), bringing India to 33/3 in 8.5 overs. However, the administration chose to elevate Ravindra Jadeja to number five instead of sending Sarfaraz, and this decision benefited India. Before going to lunch, the duo of Jadeja and Rohit Sharma cobbled together an undefeated 60-run partnership for the fourth wicket.

Regarding the alteration in the batting order, Shastri expressed his opinion that Sarfaraz ought to have been sent out before Jadeja.

If I had to choose one, I would have chosen Sarfaraz. Simple enough: he was making his Test match debut on the first day of play, batting conditions were favorable, and he was a skilled spinner. It is only because of the left-hand-right-hand combo that you can see Jadeja batting ahead of Sarfaraz. I can see how Jadeja might still get a hundred from here with all the spinners out there. On the other hand, you want to demonstrate confidence in someone who is playing in his first Test match by exposing him. He will only improve as a player if he passes the test, so go see what Test cricket is all about,” Shastri said.