Why Have India-A Dropped Sarfaraz Khan For 2nd Unofficial Test vs England Lions?

Sarfaraz Khan has made way for KL Rahul [Source: @CricCrazyJohns/X]

In a significant development, England Lions have won the toss and opted to bowl first in their second unofficial Test of the ongoing three-match series against India A. Led by Abhimanyu Easwaran, the Indian A side receives a massive boost, with veteran batter KL Rahul joining them for this high-voltage affair. 

Why Has Sarfaraz Khan Been Dropped From India A Side?

Veteran Indian batter KL Rahul recently confirmed his participation in the second unofficial Test against the Lions to prepare for the upcoming five-game series. Under Shubman Gill's leadership, India will be playing five Tests against England, and, KL Rahul is expected to play a crucial role for the visitors in this match. 

Considering Rahul is a certain starter in the first Test at Headingley, India-A have roped him into their playing XI to ensure ample game time for the Karnataka batter. In such a scenario, Sarfaraz Khan, who is not a part of India's squad for the England Tests, misses out on selection. 

Sarfaraz played the inaugural game of the series, showcasing sublime batting form for India-A. Coming at number four, Sarfaraz hammered 92 runs off just 119 balls in the first innings. The explosive Mumbaikar, who underwent a fitness transformation through rigorous diet and physical activities, formed a scintillating stand with Karun Nair, the eventual double-centurion in the drawn contest. 

However, with India aiming to ensure ample batting time for their England series-bound players, Sarfaraz had to make way for KL Rahul. 

India A playing XI For 2nd Unofficial Test vs England Lions

Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Abhimanyu Easwaran (C), Karun Nair, Dhruv Jurel (WK), Nitish Reddy, Shardul Thakur, Tanush Kotian, Anshul Kamboj, Khaleel Ahmed, Tushar Deshpande

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