Sourav Ganguly, former India captain, lauded Sarfaraz Khan and Yashasvi Jaiswal’s performances in the just finished third Test against England in Rajkot. The pair contributed significantly to Team India’s biggest-ever Test victory in terms of runs (434), giving them a 2-1 lead in the five-match series.
While Yashasvi Jaiswal got his second double-century of the series to extend India’s advantage, Sarfaraz made the most of his long-awaited debut by hitting twin fifties to make an early impression.
Sarfaraz was on a lengthy wait before he received his chance in the national team. The right-handed hitter has routinely scored runs on the local circuit, but he was constantly left out owing to India’s crowded middle order.
However, with the Men in Blue now dealing with injuries and unavailability concerns, numerous domestic talents were called up at the same time.
“Jaiswal is not only a good player, he’s capable of playing all in formats of the game. Sarfaraz has started well. He now has to score in foreign countries. Sarfaraz is a good example for budding cricketers, who must keep in mind that if they score consistently, they will get their chances.”
Sourav Ganguly
When Ravichandran Ashwin retired from the Test after Day 2, Team India appeared to have reached their limit. The off-spinner went for Chennai as his mother became unwell, but returned on Day 4 to help India finish the match.
“India are so confident that they allowed R Ashwin to go back home in the middle of a Test. India look much more motivated in this series.”
Sourav Ganguly
England’s strategy has been the buzz of the series thus far, following predicted lines, but their earlier series advantage has already transformed into a deficit heading into the final two tests.
England’s commentators have chastised Ben Stokes and his team for failing to adapt, although a change of method is unlikely at this stage.
“Bazball is good, but it’s difficult for England to be successful in Indian conditions. I will be surprised if India lose the series. Please remember that India are playing without Virat [Kohli], KL [Rahul]. It’s a young team with many new faces, and yet, England are struggling.”
Sourav Ganguly
Group A of the 2024 T20 World Cup includes Team India. They’ll be playing with Pakistan, Ireland, Canada, and the co-hosts, USA. Ben Stokes needs a stunning turnaround to win in Ranchi and Dharamshala and make history.
“Rohit Sharma is the right choice as India captain for the T20 World Cup” – Sourav Ganguly
BCCI secretary Jay Shah has declared that Rohit Sharma will captain Team India in the 2024 T20 World Cup, putting an end to uncertainty. There was a lot of doubt around the issue because Rohit has only played a few T20Is since the previous World Cup in 2022.
In his absence, Hardik Pandya has captained the side and oversaw the development of numerous young players in the new-look youthful squad, which is poised to end the Men in Blue’s ICC silverware drought late this year.
“Rohit Sharma is the right choice as India captain for the T20 World Cup. The way he led the Indian team and won 10 matches in the 50-over World Cup is still fresh in our memory. So, Rohit was the best choice.”
Sourav Ganguly
In Group A of the 2024 T20 World Cup, Team India will compete against Pakistan, Ireland, Canada, and co-hosts the United States.