Image Source: AFP
[Saba Sports News] Ex-India captain Sourav Ganguly praised Sarfaraz Khan and Yashasvi Jaiswal for their exceptional performances in the third Test against England at Rajkot, contributing significantly to India’s critical victory, securing a 2-1 series lead.
Jaiswal’s double century and Sarfaraz’s impactful debut with two fifties marked their substantial contributions. Ganguly highlighted Jaiswal’s versatility across formats and encouraged Sarfaraz to maintain his form abroad, emphasizing consistent scoring as a key to selection.
“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 shared.
Despite Sarfaraz’s wait for international play due to India’s strong middle order, Ganguly acknowledged his promising start and Jaiswal’s impressive play. He also commented on India’s confidence, even allowing Ravichandran Ashwin to leave mid-Test for personal reasons, reflecting the team’s motivation and self-assurance.
“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.”
Ganguly critiqued England’s struggle to adapt their aggressive “Bazball” strategy to Indian conditions and doubted their chances in the remainder of the series, especially against a young, vibrant Indian team missing key players like Virat Kohli and KL Rahul.
“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 added.
Looking forward, Ganguly endorsed Rohit Sharma as the ideal captain for the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup, citing his successful leadership in the 50-over World Cup. Ganguly’s statements reflect his confidence in India’s cricketing future and leadership, even as the team prepares for challenges ahead.