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The third Test match between India and New Zealand at the Wankhede Stadium saw a significant shake-up in India's batting order, drawing criticism from former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar. The move, which saw the experienced Ravindra Jadeja bat ahead of the in-form Sarfaraz Khan, prompted Manjrekar to label it a 'poor call' on social media. The rationale behind the decision appears to have been a tactical approach of maintaining a left-hand, right-hand batting combination in the middle order, a strategy often employed to disrupt the bowler's rhythm and provide a different challenge. However, this strategy came at the expense of Sarfaraz Khan, a player who has been in exceptional form, having scored three fifties in his first three Test matches and a remarkable 150 in the Bangalore Test.
Despite his impressive performances and proven ability as a batsman, Sarfaraz was relegated to the No. 8 position, a decision that left many questioning the logic behind it. His strong first-class record, particularly at his home ground in Mumbai, further strengthens the argument for his inclusion in the middle order. By pushing him down the order, India effectively removed his chance to contribute meaningfully to the team's total and potentially impact the outcome of the match. This tactical move also raises concerns about the team's confidence in Sarfaraz's abilities, questioning whether he is truly considered a key player in the Indian Test team.
Manjrekar's vocal disapproval of the decision underlines the perception among many that Sarfaraz's exclusion from the middle order was a strategic blunder. His tweet, expressing his astonishment at the decision, ignited a debate among fans and experts alike, highlighting the controversial nature of the batting order shuffle. While the Indian team management may have had its reasons for this move, the criticism from figures like Manjrekar suggests that the decision may have lacked the necessary strategic justification, particularly considering Sarfaraz's recent form and potential contribution to the team's success.