Mumbai’s preparations for their Ranji Trophy quarterfinal have hit an unexpected hurdle, with key batter Sarfaraz Khan facing a race against time to be fit for the knockout clash against Karnataka. The high-pressure contest is set to begin on Friday, January 6, at the MCA Ground in Bandra Kurla Complex, but uncertainty surrounds the availability of one of Mumbai’s most reliable performers.
Hospitalisation Raises Doubts Over Selection
Sarfaraz has been undergoing treatment after being struck down by a viral illness that worsened in recent days. The condition prevented him from taking the field during Mumbai’s previous encounter against Delhi, and medical supervision has continued since then. With the quarterfinal fast approaching, the team management is still waiting for clarity on whether he will recover sufficiently to play.
At this stage, no firm timeline has been communicated regarding his return to full fitness, leaving Mumbai in a delicate position as they plan their XI for the knockout fixture.
A Crucial Absence for Mumbai’s Batting Line-up
The potential unavailability of Sarfaraz would be a major blow for Mumbai, given the impact he has made throughout the season. He has been one of the pillars of the batting unit, consistently delivering under pressure and providing stability in the middle order.
Earlier in the tournament, Sarfaraz produced one of the most memorable innings of the Ranji Trophy season, registering a double century that showcased both his temperament and attacking range. That performance also marked a significant personal milestone, as he crossed the 5,000-run mark in first-class cricket — a testament to his sustained excellence at the domestic level.
Fitness Concerns Add to the Challenge
The viral illness is not the only concern surrounding Sarfaraz. He had also been dealing with a hamstring issue prior to the Delhi match, which limited his involvement and raised early questions about his physical condition. With illness now compounding those fitness worries, Mumbai’s support staff are monitoring his progress closely.
Mumbai Await Final Call Ahead of Karnataka Clash
Despite his health issues, Sarfaraz was recently seen with the Mumbai squad during a motivational interaction led by Sachin Tendulkar, highlighting his continued involvement with the team even while sidelined. His presence, even off the field, underlines his importance within the group.
As Mumbai gear up to face a strong Karnataka side in the quarterfinal, the team will be hoping for positive news from the medical team. If Sarfaraz is ruled out, others in the batting order will need to shoulder additional responsibility in one of the season’s most decisive matches.
A final decision on his participation is expected closer to match day.
