Sarfaraz Khan has enjoyed a dream run in white-ball cricket during the ongoing Indian domestic season, forcing his name firmly into IPL 2026 conversations. Former India all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin believes Chennai Super Kings (CSK) should capitalise on the batter’s red-hot form after securing him for INR 75 lakh at the IPL 2026 mini-auction.

Ravichandran Ashwin backs Sarfaraz to break into CSK’s crowded batting line-up

Sarfaraz’s red-ball returns in the first phase of the Ranji Trophy were modest, as he averaged 29.67 across six innings. However, the 28-year-old completely transformed his game in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025. The right-hander piled up 329 runs in seven innings at a staggering average of 65.80, while striking at an explosive 203.08.

That momentum carried seamlessly into the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Sarfaraz has so far accumulated 220 runs in three innings at an average of 110 and a strike rate of 170.54. His standout performance came against Goa on Wednesday, December 31, at the Jaipuria Vidyalaya Ground in Jaipur, where he smashed a sensational 157 off just 75 balls.

The knock drew high praise from Ashwin, who openly advocated for Sarfaraz’s inclusion in CSK’s playing XI for IPL 2026. Highlighting his consistency and dominance against spin, Ashwin tweeted:

“100*(47), 52(40), 64(25), 73(22) in the SMAT. That form’s transitioned seamlessly into the Hazare with scores of 55(49) followed by a blistering 157(75) today with 14 sixes. It’s particularly impressive how he murders spin in the middle overs with his sweeps and slog sweeps. ‘Avan kadhava thattala, idichi odachitu irukaan.’ (He is not knocking on the door, he is breaking it open). CSK should look at riding his purple patch by slotting him into the Playing XII surely? A genuine problem of plenty with the bat for the men in yellow this season!”

As Ashwin alluded to, CSK boast enviable depth in their batting department. The five-time champions have traded Sanju Samson into the squad, while Ayush Mhatre, Urvil Patel, Dewald Brevis, and skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad are all strong contenders for top-order roles. Additionally, uncapped big-money signings Kartik Sharma (wicketkeeper) and Prashant Veer (all-rounder), both acquired for INR 14.20 crore, are expected to feature prominently from the start of the season—making Sarfaraz’s selection a fascinating dilemma ahead of IPL 2026.

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