Sarfaraz Khan Discusses Fitness Overhaul and Potential Return to India’s Test Side

Sarfaraz Khan has undertaken a substantial fitness program, losing 20 kilograms, and continues to post runs in domestic cricket while remaining prepared for another chance. Despite his efforts, his absence from the national team leaves him wondering what further steps are required to secure a recall.

In an interview following Mumbai’s Ranji Trophy match against Railways, Sarfaraz spoke about his fitness transformation, the disappointment of missing selection, and the driving motivation behind his perseverance.

Sarfaraz Khan reveals truth behind his weight loss

Sarfaraz reduced his weight from roughly 97 kilograms to 77 kilograms through diet and fitness work. This change has drawn notable attention on social media, as the right‑handed batsman seeks to bolster his case for a return to the Indian Test lineup.

He noted that neither the Indian team management nor the Mumbai coaching staff directly instructed him to lose weight; he chose to improve himself after hearing remarks about his fitness.

“No one told me I had to lose weight,” Sarfaraz said. “In reality, I was overweight, and there is no doubt about that.”

“No one told me I had to lose weight. I heard on social media or from someone that I should, so I did. Whatever I hear that I need to work on, I pursue it in my life; I can’t do more than that,” he added.

Sarfaraz took the criticism to heart and implemented changes he believed would enhance his performance as a cricketer.

Why has Sarfaraz not returned to India’s Test team?

Sarfaraz last played a Test for India during the home series against New Zealand in 2024. He made an impressive start to his international career, scoring two half-centuries on his Test debut against England in Rajkot before registering a century against New Zealand in Bengaluru.

However, his subsequent performances against New Zealand were less productive, and he has not featured in a Test match since. Although he was part of India’s squad for the 2024‑25 tour of Australia, he did not receive an opportunity to play.

He was also included in the squad for the Sri Lanka Test tour in 2026 as cover for the injured Sai Sudharsan but did not feature in either match. More recently, Sarfaraz was overlooked for India A’s tour of New Zealand, another setback for a batter hoping to return to the national setup.

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