Sarfaraz Khan turned the Ranji Trophy match on its head, slamming an unbeaten double century to guide Mumbai to a towering 560 all out against Hyderabad at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium. His 227 off 219 balls – adorned with 19 fours and 9 sixes – showcased why he’s one of domestic cricket’s most feared batsmen, especially after his Vijay Hazare exploits.
Arriving at the crease at number five, Sarfaraz rebuilt and accelerated with precision. This was his fifth first-class double hundred, coinciding with the milestone of 5,000 runs. The partnerships he nurtured were pivotal: a 249-run epic with Siddhesh Lad (104 off 179, 10×4, 2×6) for the fourth wicket, and a 114-run alliance with Suved Parkar (75 off 98, 11×4, 1×6) for the sixth.
Mumbai’s top order set the tone with openers Akhil Herwadkar (27) and Akash Anand (35) forging a 60-run stand. Atharva Ankolekar’s 35 off 22 balls injected pace. Hyderabad’s CTL Rakshan shone with 4/107 in 24 overs, supported by Rohit Rayudu’s 2 wickets. Captain Mohammed Siraj, Nitin Sai Yadav, and Kodimela Madhusudan Himateja picked up one each.
Mumbai’s first-innings fortress leaves Hyderabad staring down the barrel. Sarfaraz’s hunger for runs positions Mumbai as favorites, promising a thrilling second innings battle.