Mumbai’s middle-order batter, Sarfaraz Khan, delivered an inspiring double century during the Irani Cup match against the Rest of India, dedicating half of his 222-run innings to his younger brother Musheer Khan, who recently suffered a serious car accident. Sarfaraz revealed that he had promised his family that if he managed to score 200 runs, 100 of them would be for Musheer, who is currently recovering from his injuries.
Speaking after the third day of the match, Sarfaraz reflected on the emotional week he had endured. “I promised my family and teammates that if I got set and crossed fifty, I would go for a double hundred — one hundred for myself and one hundred for my brother,” he shared.
Musheer Khan, who was unable to participate in the game due to the accident, sustained a neck fracture, according to reports. Sarfaraz explained that his brother’s absence added extra motivation for him to score big in this crucial match. “If he had played, Abbu would have been prouder. Unfortunately, he met with an accident, so I felt I had to score a double ton for him,” Sarfaraz added.
Sarfaraz remained unbeaten on 222 off 286 balls, an innings laced with 25 fours and four sixes, on what proved to be an eventful third day of the match.
Abhimanyu Easwaran Leads Rest of India’s Response
The Rest of India team responded with an impressive performance, led by Abhimanyu Easwaran’s brilliant knock of 151 from 212 balls. Easwaran’s innings included 12 boundaries and one six, marking his third score of over 150 in his last seven first-class outings. The Bengal batsman’s form has bolstered his chances of being selected as a backup opener for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series against Australia in November.
By the close of play, the Rest of India trailed Mumbai by 248 runs, with Easwaran still unbeaten on 151 and wicketkeeper Dhruv Jurel holding firm on 30.
As the match heads into its final stages, Sarfaraz Khan’s heartfelt dedication to his brother and Easwaran’s resilient innings have set the stage for an exciting conclusion in the Irani Cup.
