Sarfaraz Khan to replace Shubman Gill for first New Zealand Test: Reports

The situation may offer Sarfaraz Khan a way back into the Indian Test playing 11 as Shubman Gill reportedly has a stiff neck and in case the weather permits the toss to take place in the first Test between the hosts and New Zealand in Bengaluru, starting October 16 (Wednesday). Hindustan Times reported Gill's current situation. 

Sarfaraz’s reintroduction in the playing 11 is based on the fact that KL Rahul, who batted at number five and six in the Bangladesh series, could be pushed up to number three. In that case, Sarfaraz could bat at number six. 

The Mumbai batter smashed a record 222 against the Rest of India (RoI) in the Irani Trophy 2024. This helped him get back in the eyes of the selectors and with Gill injured, it could give Sarfaraz a chance to be back in the Indian playing 11. 

The 26-year-old had smashed three half-centuries in five innings after making his debut against England in early 2024.

Rahul, on the other hand, could be delighted to move up towards the order as most of his 2551 Test runs have come as an opener. 

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