Sarfaraz Khan and Virat Kohli (PTI Photo)
NEW DELHI: After a remarkable maiden Test century against New Zealand, Sarfaraz Khan opened up on the surreal experience of sharing the field with Virat Kohli.
Speaking to BCCI TV after his stellar knock on Saturday, the young batter shared how playing alongside Kohli has been a dream come true.
"I had been watching Virat bhai since childhood, and it was a dream to play alongside him, which came true at RCB.
But I never knew I would get to play with him for India too and share the dressing room," Sarfaraz said.
Recalling Kohli’s encouraging words during the second-innings batting, Sarfaraz added, "He was telling me to keep backing my shots and play freely, just the way I feel comfortable. He gave me a lot of confidence, so this was a dream day for me."
Sarfaraz’s impressive 150 was the highlight of Day 4 in Bengaluru, helping India recover from a shaky position.
Partnering with Rishabh Pant, who narrowly missed a century with 99, Sarfaraz stitched together a vital 177-run stand.
India vs New Zealand Test: Focus returns on India batters after high-scoring day
Their partnership not only stabilized India’s innings but also propelled the hosts to a commanding second-innings total of 462 runs.
The day began with India trailing after the dismissal of an in-form Virat Kohli for 70 on the last ball of day three. However, Sarfaraz and Pant’s counter-attack set the tone for India's fightback.
Although India lost four quick wickets post-tea, including Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, and Mohammed Siraj, the solid foundation laid by Sarfaraz and Pant ensured a healthy lead.
With New Zealand needing 107 runs on the final day, the game is poised for a thrilling finish.
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