Rajkot, February 15

All that Sarfaraz Khan wanted since the beginning of his cricket journey as a six-year-old was to become an international player in front of his father.

Two decades later, that dream came true today for the Mumbaikar when he was handed his Test cap ahead of the third match against England by no less than former captain Anil Kumble with his father Naushad watching tearfully.

He proved his worth with a half-century, which could have been a bigger knock, if not for the run out at the non-striker’s end following a mix-up with Ravindra Jadeja.

The 26-year-old was, however, too happy to have any complaints.”Coming to the ground for the first time and getting the cap in front of my father. I was six when he started my cricket (training). It was my dream to play for the Indian team in front of him,” Sarfaraz said.

India’s Test cap No. 311, Sarfaraz gave a fine account of himself with a rapid 62.

Naushad was overwhelmed. He had not even planned to visit Rajkot to watch his son, but landed in the city on the eve of the game.

Tears, hugs and joy swept the Khan family with Sarfaraz’s wife present beside his father.

“It was my father’s dream to play for India but unfortunately it couldn’t happen due to some reasons, there wasn’t much support from home then. He worked very hard on me and is now doing the same with my brother. It was the proudest moment of my life,” he said. “Runs and performances were not on my mind as much as I was happy playing for India in front of my father,” he added.