Sarfaraz Khan Shows His Class with a Match-Saving Century
When pressure is at its peak, great players find a way to rise above the situation. That is exactly what Sarfaraz Khan did in Mumbai’s third and final group match of the Buchi Babu Tournament 2025 in Chennai. The middle-order batter scored a magnificent unbeaten 109 off 109 balls, smashing nine boundaries and five sixes to pull Mumbai out of serious trouble against Haryana.
For someone constantly knocking on the doors of the India Test squad, this century could not have come at a better time.
Mumbai in a Spot of Bother
The match began poorly for Mumbai as their top-order failed to get going. At 84 for 4, the team looked vulnerable against a disciplined Haryana bowling unit. Runs were hard to come by, the pressure was building, and the game seemed to be slipping away.
But Sarfaraz Khan, known for his consistency in domestic cricket, walked in with purpose. Instead of defending endlessly, he played with intent, mixing caution with aggression. His ability to absorb pressure and then counterattack turned the game around for Mumbai.
Partnership with Hardik Tamore
One of the highlights of the innings was the partnership between Sarfaraz Khan and wicketkeeper-batter Hardik Tamore. The duo added 117 runs for the fifth wicket, stabilizing the innings.
While Tamore held one end with a steady 39 runs off 73 balls, Sarfaraz kept finding gaps and clearing the ropes with ease. The contrast in their approach worked perfectly. By the time Tamore departed, Mumbai had already regained control of the match, thanks to Sarfaraz’s flawless knock.
Sarfaraz Khan’s Century: More Than Just Runs
What made this innings stand out was the context. Scoring a run-a-ball century in red-ball cricket is rare, especially when the team is under pressure. Sarfaraz Khan century wasn’t just about survival; it was about dominating the bowlers when Mumbai needed it most.
This was his second hundred of the Buchi Babu Tournament, underlining his consistency. Every time he comes to the crease, Sarfaraz seems to carry the responsibility of Mumbai’s batting order, and more often than not, he delivers.
Consistency That Demands National Call-Up
For the last three seasons, Sarfaraz Khan has been among the most prolific run-getters in domestic cricket. His average in the Ranji Trophy is among the best in modern times, and yet, he has often been overlooked for the India Test squad.
With India’s Test series against West Indies scheduled for October, this latest performance has once again pushed his case forward. Selectors are keeping an eye on consistent domestic performers, and Sarfaraz’s ability to score under pressure makes him a strong contender for a middle-order role.
Batting Style That Suits Test Cricket
Sarfaraz Khan’s unbeaten 109 showed why he is so highly rated. His ability to rotate strike, punish loose deliveries, and accelerate when required makes him a complete package. Against Haryana, he played classical cover drives, fierce pull shots, and clean sixes over long-on and midwicket.
The best part of his batting is his temperament. He doesn’t get carried away after hitting boundaries; instead, he builds his innings patiently, a quality that is vital for success in Test cricket. This Sarfaraz Khan century once again reflected his maturity and adaptability.
Buchi Babu Tournament: A Launchpad for Talent
The Buchi Babu Tournament has historically been a stage where many domestic stars announced themselves. Sarfaraz has used this platform perfectly to remind everyone of his abilities. Scoring centuries in challenging Chennai conditions, where humidity and turning tracks test every batter, adds more weight to his performances.
Selectors often look at such tournaments to judge temperament, and Sarfaraz Khan’s unbeaten 109 will surely feature in discussions when the Test squad is picked.
The Road Ahead
Mumbai’s campaign in the Buchi Babu Tournament may have ups and downs, but Sarfaraz Khan’s batting has been the biggest positive. For him personally, this century is more than just another addition to his record — it’s a message. A message to selectors that he is ready, prepared, and hungry to represent India at the highest level.
The India Test squad is expected to be announced soon, and if performances are the yardstick, Sarfaraz’s name deserves to be there.
Conclusion
Sarfaraz Khan’s unbeaten 109 against Haryana in the Buchi Babu Tournament wasn’t just a brilliant century; it was a rescue act, a statement, and a reminder of his consistency. From 84/4 to a position of strength, Mumbai owes its revival to Sarfaraz’s bat.
As India prepares for the upcoming Test series, this knock strengthens the belief that Sarfaraz Khan’s time has come. His consistency, hunger, and match-winning ability make him a strong candidate for the India Test squad. If there was ever a performance that demanded attention, this Sarfaraz Khan century in Chennai was certainly it.
