Sarfaraz Khan Recalled to Indian Squad Following 17kg Weight Loss and BKC Training
Mumbai cricketer Sarfaraz Khan has joined up with the Indian national team in Colombo after being drafted into the squad as an injury replacement for Sai Sudharsan. Prior to his recall, the batter undertook detailed preparations across Mumbai, including training sessions at the MCA Indoor facility in BKC and private facilities in Kurla.
Khan last played for India in 2024 and had been absent from the national squad for more than a year. His return to the national side comes on the heels of a major personal transformation over the past 18 months, during which he addressed questions regarding his bulky frame despite an impressive domestic record. According to PTI, the batter lost 17 kilograms while working hard on his physical fitness and batting.
The weight loss provided Khan with a leaner look and positively impacted his T20 performance. He established himself as an integral part of the Chennai Super Kings setup, spending time alongside MS Dhoni. Although the team did not enjoy the greatest of seasons, Khan made his mark by delivering several impactful knocks. Following the IPL, he participated in the Mumbai T20 League, where he opened the batting and scored a truckload of runs.
However, the onset of rains in Mumbai subsequently left Khan with no local avenue to train outdoors. To maintain his progress, he shifted his base to Kashmir, honing his red-ball game at the Sher-e-Kashmir Stadium.
In addition to his Kashmir stint, Khan maintained a rigorous preparation schedule in Mumbai. He conducted skills training on astro-turf wickets at the MCA Indoor facility at BKC. Furthermore, he rented private facilities around Kurla, where he batted for hours on used and under-prepared red-soil tracks to keep his game top notch against slow bowlers.
Having arrived in Colombo, Khan is now training with the Indian squad as he attempts to make the most of his rare opportunity. His skills make him a vital asset, and he could be slotted straight into the playing XI, with Dhruv Jurel playing as a specialist batter.
