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Xtra Time Web Desk: Former India cricketer Anil Kumble praised Sarfaraz Khan's street-smart approach during the Bengaluru Test against New Zealand. Sarfaraz played a crucial knock, scoring a brilliant century in the second innings, leading India's comeback after being bowled out for just 46 runs in the first innings.

Sarfaraz's innings helped neutralize New Zealand's imposing 350+ run lead, bringing India back into contention. Speaking on Jio Cinema after Sarfaraz’s maiden Test century, Kumble highlighted how the batter effectively applied pressure on the New Zealand bowlers, showcasing composure against both pace and spin. Sarfaraz was particularly impressive with his square-of-the-wicket shots, including sharp cuts, which contributed to his confident and rapid hundred.

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"You can sort is understand the aura with which he walks in. He is street smart and he knows how to put pressure back on the player, and you have to remember that he has only played one series. And now under pressure he has come in and has tried to stamp his authority on the bowling attack. Against spin, he is total control, he puts pressure back on the bowler right from ball one and then against pacres, he uses the pace to such good effect. When New Zealand packed the square, he got his boundaries through covers. He does not move much, stands still and plays inside the line and he sticks to his gameplan," Anil Kumble said. 

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Sarfaraz Khan delivered a stunning century in the second innings of the Bengaluru Test, leading India's fightback on Saturday, October 19, in the 1st Test against New Zealand. After a disappointing three-ball duck in the first innings, Sarfaraz bounced back with a stroke-filled hundred, impressing fans with his incredible grit and determination.

His century helped India erase New Zealand's substantial 350+ run lead, putting the team back in contention. The Mumbai batter's remarkable knock came on the back of a match-winning double century in the Irani Trophy, further cementing his exceptional form. Fans showered praise on Sarfaraz for his resilience and game-changing performance.