Mohammad Kaif backs Sarfaraz Khan for India's best XI in Sri Lanka

Former India batter Mohammad Kaif believes Sarfaraz Khan deserves a place in India's playing XI for the Test series against Sri Lanka, especially with the team set to face spin-friendly conditions. Sarfaraz has been recalled to India's Test squad after Sai Sudharsan was ruled out with a toe injury. Kaif said Sarfaraz's ability to play spin at number five or six would be valuable on turning tracks. The Mumbai batter has scored 371 runs in six Tests at an average of 37.10, including three half-centuries. His inclusion gives India another middle-order option as they prepare for the two-Test series that begins in Galle on August 15.