Sarfaraz Khan Suffers Elbow Injury, Leaves Nets Ahead of Perth Test

During India's practice session at the WACA in Perth on Thursday, batsman Sarfaraz Khan injured his elbow while batting in the nets. Following the blow, Sarfaraz reportedly stepped off the nets, according to Fox Cricket. It did not, however, specify the severity of the injuries. At first glance, it didn't seem like the injury was that bad. It's possible that Sarfaraz's decision to leave the nets was a precaution.

Sarfaraz is a candidate for the November 22 start of the first Test match against Australia in Perth. Since the team management will make the final selection on the eve of the opening test, he is currently vying with KL Rahul and Dhruv Jurel for the No. 6 berth. The availability of skipper Rohit Sharma is another factor. For personal reasons, he is currently in Mumbai and has not travelled with the team.

Sarfaraz Khan injury worry:

#BorderGavaskarTrophy Practice #ViratKohli 's Intense practice session in Perth.#sarfarazkhan has got hit on the arm...& left the nets.

***Indian fans climb the tree to watch training of superstars.@imVkohli#INDvAUSpic.twitter.com/W8MESx3ong

— alekhaNikun (@nikun28) November 14, 2024

A middle-order pot would be created as a result, and Sarfaraz and Dhruv Jurel might be in a tie for it. Despite Sarfaraz's impressive 150 in the second Test match against New Zealand, Jurel's performance against Australia at the MCG has solidified his place in the running. 

KL Rahul might open with Yashasvi Jaiswal if he is unable to play in the Perth Test. It indicates that Sarfaraz or Jurel will be included in the starting lineup. Notably, the Mumbai native scored a century in the final Test match against New Zealand in Bengaluru, but he has struggled greatly in the middle ever since.

In contrast, Jurel's performance against Australia A in the unofficial Test match was outstanding. The keeper-batter improved his chances of playing in the first Test by scoring 80 and 68 runs in the match, respectively. The 23-year-old, who doesn't bat aggressively, appeared to be well-adjusted to the Australian environment.

The forthcoming series in Australia presents an opportunity for Virat Kohli to regain his form as he deals with growing criticism and conjecture regarding his position in the team. He has performed exceptionally well in Australia in the past, and supporters are hoping he can do so again.

Watch this space for more cricket news.