Sarfaraz Khan Expresses His Emotions After Scoring Maiden Century, Says ‘I Was So Happy’

October 20, 2024: After scoring his maiden Test century against New Zealand at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, Sarfaraz Khan shared his joy and emotions, describing the moment as one where he felt like he was “flying in the sky.”

Reflecting on the surreal experience, Sarfaraz said that when celebrating his century, even the grass seemed blue instead of green, showcasing the overwhelming happiness of achieving his dream of scoring a hundred for India.

Sarfaraz also recalled the motivation he received from star batter Virat Kohli, his former RCB teammate. Kohli encouraged him to trust his abilities and play freely, a confidence boost that Sarfaraz cherished. “I’ve watched Virat Kohli since childhood and always wanted to play with him,” he said. “That dream came true with RCB, but playing with him in the Indian team was even more special. When someone like Kohli and Rohit Sharma pats your back, it’s a proud moment.”

Despite India’s strong position at 407-3 in their second innings, they faced a dramatic collapse, losing seven wickets for less than 60 runs. Sarfaraz continued his stellar form, scoring 150, while Rishabh Pant contributed 99. However, KL Rahul’s struggles continued, and India’s middle and lower-order faltered against New Zealand’s bowlers, particularly in the post-Tea session.

Ravindra Jadeja was the first to fall to William O’Rourke, followed by Ravichandran Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, and Mohammed Siraj, all falling in quick succession. Matt Henry claimed three wickets, while O’Rourke also grabbed three, as India’s innings concluded at 462. Kuldeep Yadav remained unbeaten on 6 as New Zealand’s fast bowling unit, with contributions from Tim Southee, Ajaz Patel, and Glenn Phillips, wrapped up the innings.

This exceptional bowling performance, which saw New Zealand’s pacers claim 17 wickets, marked the most by a visiting side in a Test match in India since South Africa’s 19 wickets in Ahmedabad in 2008.

As New Zealand began their chase of 107 runs, openers Tom Latham and Devon Conway faced just four deliveries before bad light halted play. Latham survived a close call when Jasprit Bumrah’s delivery pitched outside off, but India’s review was unsuccessful. India will need to take all 10 wickets on the final day as New Zealand looks to achieve the target.