Since Sarfaraz Khan had reached 150, Maybe there was a slight concentration lapse: Aakash Chopra

Sarfaraz Khan, who took Shubman Gill’s position in the opening Test match against New Zealand at Bengaluru’s M Chinnaswamy Stadium, produced an incredible century in the game’s second innings. Sarfaraz fulfilled the expectations by scoring 150 runs and reviving India in the match, which was much needed by the hosts. In the game’s second innings, he and Rishabh Pant stitched a vital 177-run partnership that helped the team captained by Rohit Sharma score 462 runs.

Notably, even though India was under tremendous strain, the cricket player from Mumbai remained consistent in his strategy. The player had to return to the pavilion shortly after reaching 150 because Tim Southee beat him, despite the fact that he looked perfect and placed pressure on the Kiwi bowlers.

According to former cricket player Aakash Chopra, Sarfarz may have lost focus after hitting the milestone, which could have cost him the wicket. He concluded that Sarfaraz received a lot of off-side questioning, particularly when he was facing the new ball.

The cricket player let it go because he doesn’t play drives, but Aakash Chopra said that he went for it and got out on that Southee delivery.

Only that is how test cricket operates. The opposition team took the new ball because they were trailing in the match, they had fast bowlers, and there was a marginally higher possibility of wickets falling with the new ball. However, taking the new ball is not required. In a Colors Cineplex discussion, Chopra added, “Then they bowled with discipline as well.”

Before that, their bowling appeared deflated, but as soon as they received the fresh ball, their stride began to spring and they began bowling in the proper spots. Perhaps there was a small moment of distraction after he hit 150, or else he doesn’t play drives,” Chopra continued.

Also Read: Rishabh Pant joins MS Dhoni on unwanted list during 1st Test vs New Zealand

New Zealand, meanwhile, has to win the first Test by 107 runs. The task before India is formidable, and winning the match on Day 5 will require an outstanding effort from the bowling unit.