"Knew Rishabh Pant Was In Pain": Sarfaraz Khan On Viral 'Mix-Up' Moment During 1st Test vs New Zealand

Sarfaraz Khan delivered a stellar performance on Saturday, scoring his first Test century (150) and leading India's remarkable recovery in the first Test against New Zealand. With the hosts setting a modest 107-run target, Sarfaraz expressed confidence that early wickets on a deteriorating pitch could turn the match in India's favour. “It felt really good to score a century for my country, fulfilling a childhood dream,” Sarfaraz told reporters at the end of the day's play on Saturday. “It won't be easy for New Zealand. The pitch has its challenges; the ball is moving and cutting unpredictably, and there will be turn. If we can get breakthroughs early tomorrow, they might find themselves in a similar spot as we did,” he added.

Sarfaraz's century, in just his fourth Test appearance, marked a major milestone for the 26-year-old. “It felt really good to score a century for my country, fulfilling a childhood dream,” he said with a smile.

India had found themselves in a precarious position after being bundled out for just 46 in the first innings. But Sarfaraz's 177-run partnership with Rishabh Pant breathed life back into their campaign. Both players, who were part of India's 2016 U-19 World Cup squad, combined caution and aggression to put New Zealand under pressure. Their partnership turned the tide for India before another lower-order collapse left the visitors chasing 107. While Sarfaraz scored 150, Pant went on to miss a ton, getting out for 99 overall.

“Batting with Pant is enjoyable; runs come quickly when he is on strike. We've known each other a long time, and there's good communication out there,” Sarfaraz said, reflecting on their fruitful collaboration at the crease.

The day was not without lighter moments,