'Those hands are very low' - Brad Hogg spots glitch in Sarfaraz Khan's technique ahead of BGT 2024-25
The middle-order batter impressed with a majestic debut ton against New Zealand in the recently-concluded first Test of the series.
Although only four Tests down in a fledgling international career, Indian middle-order batter Sarfaraz Khan, has managed to attract eyeballs all across. More so after the first Test between India and New Zealand in Bengaluru where he made amends after a duck in the first innings to notch up his maiden international ton (150 off 195) to further his selection prospects for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25.
Meanwhile, former cricketer Brad Hogg has highlighted an aspect which Sarfaraz should work upon before he goes to play on livelier surfaces in SENA countries or the surfaces Down Under if selected for India's imminent tour to Australia.
"There's one thing that I'm worried about Sarfaraz Khan moving forward if he goes to places like England, South Africa, and if he's on the tour here to Australia, where there's extra bounce, he might find himself in a little bit of trouble with the way that he sets himself up before the fast bowler delivers. Those hands are very low," Hogg said on his YouTube channel.
Hogg also opined that India should include Shubman Gill at the expense of KL Rahul in the Pune Test against New Zealand.
"I'd bring Gill in for Rahul now. You've got to play Sarfaraz in the next game. He's made a 150, nearly a match-saving 150 under pressure, you've got to keep that momentum going. Rahul has had his opportunities, hasn't taken those opportunities over the last couple of Test matches," he added.
I'd go with Jurel because you want that backup keeper: Hogg
Furthermore, Hogg spoke about another change he would make to India's XI for the second Test. He preferred Dhruv Jurel, who came in for Rishabh Pant after the 37th over of New Zealand's first innings after copping a blow on his knee.
"If Pant is unfit as well, will they play Jurel or will they keep Rahul in there to do the keeping? I'd go with Jurel because you want that backup keeper who's going to be the future of India moving forward," added Hogg.
There are reports floating around regarding the team management wanting to go ahead with Rahul as person with the gloves if Pant is rested for the second Test in Pune. However, his recent batting performances have not really made him a clear-cut recourse.
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