As a big fan of Indian cricket, I’ve often found myself caught up in the exciting argument between Sarfaraz Khan and Shubman Gill, two of the next big stars in the game. Both players have shown a lot of promise, but their skills, styles, and possible places on the Indian Test team are very different. Gill, who is also referred to as the “Prince of Indian Cricket”, has already made a name for himself in international cricket, but Sarfaraz’s amazing results at home make him an interesting choice. It’s hard to choose between them, which made me wonder who really deserves to be in India’s Test XI.
Sarfaraz Khan vs Shubman Gill – International Test Performance
As of October 19, 2024
| Test Career | Sarfaraz Khan | Shubman Gill |
| Matches | 4 | 27 |
| Innings | 7 | 50 |
| Runs | 350 | 1656 |
| Batting Average | 58.33 | 36.80 |
| Centuries | 1 | 5 |
| Half-Centuries | 3 | 6 |
| Best Score | 150 | 128 |
Domestic Records
Sarfaraz Khan’s Domestic Performance (First-Class)
Sarfaraz Khan has been a force in the domestic circuit, particularly in the Ranji Trophy, where he has consistently delivered outstanding performances.
As of October 19, 2024
| Statistic | First-Class |
| Matches | 51 |
| Runs | 4422 |
| Batting Average | 69.09 |
| Centuries | 15 |
| Half-Centuries | 14 |
| Best Score | 301 |
Sarfaraz’s staggering first-class average of over 69 puts him among the best in the world. His ability to score big runs under pressure makes him an attractive prospect for India’s middle order.
Shubman Gill’s Domestic Performance (First-Class)
Shubman Gill, on the other hand, has been touted as the future of Indian cricket, with stellar performances across formats. His first-class record also holds weight when compared to Sarfaraz.
As of October 19, 2024
| Statistic | First-Class |
| Matches | 55 |
| Runs | 4244 |
| Batting Average | 49.34 |
| Centuries | 13 |
| Half-Centuries | 18 |
| Best Score | 268 |
Gill’s average of close to 50 is impressive, though it lags behind Sarfaraz’s. However, Gill has a well-rounded game, making him adaptable to all formats, including Test cricket.
Shubman Gill in SENA
Gill’s overseas performances, especially in Australia, have been a highlight of his Test career so far. His fearless approach against world-class bowlers such as Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc has demonstrated his ability to adapt to foreign pitches.
As of October 19, 2024
| Statistic | Australia | England | South Africa |
| Matches | 3 | 3 | 2 |
| Runs | 259 | 88 | 74 |
| Batting Average | 51.80 | 14.66 | 18.50 |
| Centuries | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Half-Centuries | 2 | 0 | 0 |
| Best Score | 91 | 28 | 36 |
While Gill’s performances in Australia have been strong, his records in England & South Africa show room for improvement.
Sarfaraz Khan’s Adaptability
Sarfaraz’s impressive domestic and home test numbers show he is capable of handling diverse conditions, but without overseas exposure, it is difficult to assess how he will fare against quality bowling attacks on foreign soil. His ability to score on turning Indian tracks bodes well for his future in subcontinent conditions.
Fielding Skills
Shubman Gill
Gill is one of India’s best fielders because he is very fast and has quick reactions. Gill is very important to the Indian Test team because he is quick and can make important catches whether he is in the slips or on the boundary.
Sarfaraz Khan
Sarfaraz, though an able fielder, does not match Gill’s athleticism and quickness in the field. He is a safe catcher and an excellent close-in fielder, though.
Who should be India’s first choice?
Shubman Gill already has experience in international cricket and has performed in critical matches overseas, making him a relatively safer bet for India’s top order. His ability to bat in tough conditions and his skills as a fielder make him a valuable asset.
Sarfaraz Khan, on the other hand, has an exceptional first-class record and seems to be equally effective in International Test cricket. His consistency in the domestic circuit makes him a strong contender for a middle-order spot, especially when considering India’s struggles with collapses.
