Despite delivering impressive performances in domestic cricket and making a promising start to his Test career, Sarfaraz Khan continues to struggle for a regular place in the Indian team. The Mumbai batter has played six Test matches, scoring one century and three half-centuries, but opportunities at the international level have remained limited.

Sarfaraz was part of India's squad for the Sri Lanka tour but did not feature in a single match. He was subsequently left out of the Test squad as well as the India A teams selected for the series against New Zealand. The lack of opportunities has left the cricketer uncertain about what lies ahead.

'I don't know what the future holds'

Speaking to reporters at Brabourne Stadium after returning to play for Mumbai, Sarfaraz admitted that he was unsure about his international future.

He explained that he had not expected to receive a call-up for the Sri Lanka tour and was now focused on making the most of every opportunity available to him.

Sarfaraz said he would continue playing wherever he gets a chance. If selected for a higher-level competition, he would take that opportunity; otherwise, he would concentrate on the Ranji Trophy.

Overseas performance and selection concerns

Sarfaraz has built an outstanding record in first-class cricket. In 66 matches, he has accumulated 5,354 runs at an impressive average of 63.73.

However, questions have reportedly been raised about his ability to perform consistently in challenging overseas conditions, particularly in South Africa, England, New Zealand and Australia, commonly referred to as SENA countries.

Sarfaraz revealed that although selectors had not directly communicated this concern to him, he had heard during his time with the Indian team that he was being considered primarily for matches played on Indian pitches.

He disagreed with the perception, pointing to his performances abroad and claiming that he had scored centuries in just 60 balls in South Africa and England. Nevertheless, he acknowledged that selection decisions were ultimately the selectors' responsibility.

The batter maintained that his focus remained on scoring runs rather than worrying about opinions surrounding his selection.

Sarfaraz's 22-kilogram weight-loss journey

Sarfaraz also spoke about his fitness transformation, revealing that he had lost 22 kilograms through his own efforts.

He clarified that nobody had specifically instructed him to lose weight. Instead, after hearing discussions about his fitness on social media and elsewhere, he decided to work towards improving his physical condition.

In a light-hearted remark, he joked that he seemed to score more runs when he was heavier. However, he quickly added that his current performances should not be judged by the number of big innings he produces in a particular season.

According to Sarfaraz, consistency and remaining in form are more important, and he believes the big scores will eventually come.

Father's support remains his biggest motivation

Sarfaraz became emotional while discussing the support he has received throughout his cricketing journey. He credited his father as the person who stood by him and helped him pursue his dream of representing India.

He acknowledged that earning a place in the Indian team is extremely difficult in the current generation and said that fulfilling his father's dream had required years of hard work.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding his selection, Sarfaraz made it clear that he has no intention of stepping away from the game. He simply wants to keep playing cricket and does not enjoy sitting at home.

What lies ahead for Sarfaraz Khan?

For now, Sarfaraz's immediate focus remains on domestic cricket and making every opportunity count. His first-class record demonstrates his ability to score heavily, but converting those performances into a consistent place in the Indian Test side remains his biggest challenge.

Whether he gets another opportunity at the international level will depend on his performances and the selectors' assessment. Until then, Sarfaraz appears determined to let his bat do the talking.