Indian T20I cricket team captain Suryakumar Yadav recently praised Sarfaraz Khan for his ability to bat for long periods and score big centuries, despite ongoing criticism about his fitness. Yadav’s comments came after Sarfaraz hit his maiden Test century during the first Test match against New Zealand on day 4 at M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru, showcasing his strength in the longer format of the game.

Sarfaraz, who had been dismissed for a duck in the first innings, made a stunning comeback in the second innings, scoring 150 runs off 195 balls, including 18 fours and 3 sixes. His performance was crucial for India as they looked to secure a strong position in the match.

Speaking about Sarfaraz to indian express, Yadav said, “Sarfaraz is working on his fitness with the Indian team strength and conditioning coach, and Rishabh (Pant) has provided him with a chef who is taking care of his food. The intent is that by the time he reaches the Border Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, his body is in a better shape. Fitness is important in this sport as he gets older, body will change. He is working hard now, he will be fine in future.”

Sarfaraz has often faced criticism for his body type, but Yadav defended him, explaining how it’s an unfair perception. “His body type might make him look fat but if you ask him to bat 450 balls, score double hundred, triple hundred, daddy hundred, he has that skill. I think the team has a similar demand to make big hundreds, play game-changing knocks… I have never seen him skipping practice even on match day. If there is a game, he will get up at 5 am, bat for one hour near his home and then join the team bus. After the game, he will go to the nearby ground and bat again,” Yadav added.