Sarfaraz Khan struck on elbow during practice; injury not serious

Middle-order batter Sarfaraz Khan was struck on the elbow while batting in the nets during India’s practice session at the WACA on Thursday. However, initial assessments indicate there is no need for an MRI.

A video posted by Fox Cricket showed the Mumbai run-machine holding his right arm as he walked off the nets, visibly in discomfort. Despite the concern, sources have confirmed that the injury is not serious, and Sarfaraz will not require further medical examination.

Sarfaraz is still in contention to play in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy opener in Perth. India captain Rohit Sharma’s participation in the first Test remains uncertain, as he is currently in Mumbai for the birth of his second child.

Should Rohit be unavailable for the series opener, KL Rahul may be asked to partner Yashasvi Jaiswal at the top of the order, potentially opening up a slot for Sarfaraz in the middle order. The 27-year-old batter has earned his spot in the Indian squad after a prolific run in domestic cricket, including a maiden Test century in the recent series against New Zealand.

However, it will be a different challenge for Sarfaraz in the testing Australian conditions, where he will face a potent pace attack.

Additionally, the talented Dhruv Jurel is also vying for a place in the playing XI after impressing with his performances against Australia A at the MCG.

Since making his Test debut in February, Sarfaraz has played six matches, scoring 371 runs at an average of 37.10. Aside from his century in Bengaluru, Sarfaraz has found it difficult to get going in the other five innings against New Zealand, managing only 21 runs. The 27-year-old will face a stern test on the fast and bouncy pitches of Australia, particularly against the likes of Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Starc.