Galle: India face a key selection call before the Sri Lanka Tests. Sarfaraz Khan could challenge Dhruv Jurel for a place in the middle order.
Sarfaraz joined the squad after Sai Sudharsan was ruled out. His selection suggests that India want a batter who can handle spin effectively. Galle is expected to offer conditions where spinners could play a major role.
Jurel has been used as a specialist batter since Rishabh Pant took over as the main wicketkeeper. He has delivered important performances in the past. However, his recent performances have been uneven. He scored 1 and 17 in the warm-up match.
Sarfaraz has a strong record against spin in domestic cricket. He is comfortable using the sweep and lap-sweep. He can also move down the pitch to disrupt the bowlers’ rhythm. These skills could prove valuable if Sri Lanka produce a turning surface.
He has also shown this attacking approach in his limited Test appearances against New Zealand and England.
However, Sarfaraz has not played much recent red-ball cricket. His forthcoming practice sessions could be crucial in determining his choice.
Jurel remains in contention. But on a turning Galle surface, Sarfaraz’s ability to attack spin could give him an advantage.