Sarfaraz Khan is good example for budding cricketers, who must keep scoring consistently, says Sourav Ganguly

Former Indian team captain Sourav Ganguly has commended the stellar performances of Sarfaraz Khan and Yashasvi Jaiswal in the recent third Test against England in Rajkot. Their contributions played a pivotal role in India's monumental victory, which saw them claim a 2-1 lead in the ongoing five-match series.

Jaiswal's remarkable double century in India's second innings helped them take a good lead. While Sarfaraz, who was making his long-awaited debut, grabbed the opportunity with both hands. He scored back-to-back half-centuries, making an early statement in his international career.

Jaiswal is not only a good player, he’s capable of playing across formats: Sourav Ganguly

Despite consistently scoring runs in domestic cricket, Khan had to wait for a long time to get a chance due to India's formidable middle-order lineup. Ganguly correctly summarized Sarfaraz's journey and appreciated Jaiswal's innings. 

"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," Ganguly said in an interaction with Mid Day.

India's resolve was put to the test when Ravichandran Ashwin left the Test midway due to personal reasons. Ganguly remarked on India's confidence, noting, "India are so confident that they allowed R Ashwin to go back home in the middle of a Test. India looks much more motivated in this series."

The visitors have been struggling, with their initial lead now having transformed into a deficit. Ganguly expressed skepticism about England's chances in the remainder series. 

"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," Ganguly explained.

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Looking ahead, England faces an uphill battle to replicate their past success in India. With Rohit Sharma set to lead India in the upcoming  ICC T20 World Cup, Ganguly endorsed the decision, citing Rohit's exceptional leadership during the 50-over World Cup.

"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," Ganguly concluded.

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