IPL 2022: Have high hopes from Sarfaraz Khan this time – Wasim Jaffer

Former Indian opener Wasim Jaffer has high hopes from Sarfaraz Khan for the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League. Khan was roped in by Delhi Capitals for INR 20 lakhs in IPL 2022 mega auction.

The ex-domestic giant believes Sarfaraz Khan will get his opportunities at number three or four in the batting order for Delhi Capitals.

Khan had earlier played for Royal Challengers Bangalore and he batted in the lower-middle order for them. The youngster also played for Punjab Kings but couldn’t come up with consistent performances.

Meanwhile, the 24-year old had been in red-hot form in the league stage of Ranji Trophy for Mumbai. The youngster had returned with gigantic scores of 275, 63, 48, and 165 in three matches and he would look carry the same form in the IPL.

Jaffer said during a discussion on ESPNcricinfo: “I have high hopes from Sarfaraz Khan this time. He has played at numbers 5, 6, and 7 mostly. But, this year we might get to see him bat at 3 or 4, which I feel is a better position for him. In Ranji as well, he bats at 4-5 and that position suits him. It remains to be seen how he transforms his Ranji form in the IPL. He plays some unusual shots in the T20 format, so he has that game.”

On the other hand, former Indian opener Aakash Chopra picked Tilak Varma as his uncapped player to watch out for in the upcoming IPL. Varma was bought for INR 1.7 crores by Mumbai Indians. The 19-year old youngster is a left-handed batter and he can also contribute with the ball.

“Tilak Varma has been picked by Mumbai Indians. MI’s auction strategy this time revolved around the fact that they scout very well. They pick the best-uncapped players. MI have placed their faith in Tilak Varma this time. I am investing my faith in Mumbai Indians. I am hoping Tilak Varma gets a chance and does well too.”

Varma has scored 381 runs in 15 T20 matches at an average of 29.30 and a strike rate of 143.77. Delhi Capitals will begin their season against Mumbai Indians at the Brabourne Stadium, Mumbai on 27th March.