Bengaluru, India – Indian cricketer Sarfaraz Khan has garnered significant attention, and an endorsement from former England captain Kevin Pietersen, following a remarkable fitness transformation. The 27-year-old, who has openly struggled with fitness concerns in his international career, revealed on Instagram that he has shed an impressive 17 kg.
Sarfaraz’s leaner physique marks a pivotal moment in his career, especially after being overlooked for India’s recent five-Test series in England and experiencing a fluctuating presence in the national squad. Despite a stellar first-class average of 65.98, fifth-highest among batters with 50-plus innings, perceived fitness issues and technical vulnerabilities against pace bowling have hindered his ability to cement a permanent spot in the Test team. His last Test appearance was during India’s home defeat to New Zealand in October-November, where he followed a score of 150 in Bengaluru with subsequent innings of 11, 9, 0, and 1. He also travelled with the squad for the 2024–25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia but did not play and was later dropped entirely.
However, Sarfaraz has shown promising form for India A, with scores of 71*, 14, 68, 34, and 92 in five away matches, including a strong knock against the England Lions ahead of the 2025 Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy.
Pietersen, recognizing the immense effort, publicly applauded Sarfaraz on X (formerly Twitter). “Outstanding effort, young man!” Pietersen wrote. “Huge congrats and I’m sure it’s going to lead to better and more consistent performances on the field. I love the time you’ve spent reorganising your priorities! LFG!”
The former England star also urged out-of-favour Indian batter Prithvi Shaw to draw inspiration from Sarfaraz’s dedication, adding, “Can someone show Prithvi this please? It can be done! Strong body, strong mind!”
Sarfaraz’s commitment to improving his physical condition could be a significant step towards a more consistent and impactful international career, signaling his determination to overcome past setbacks and prove his mettle on the biggest stage. (Agencies )
