Watch: Sarfaraz Khan's unreal ramp-shot draws roar from Bengaluru crowd

Sarfaraz Khan's incredible ramp-shot off William O'Rourke highlighted India's fighting spirit on Day 3 of the Bengaluru Test. Partnering with Virat Kohli, Sarfaraz's fiery half-century lifted hopes after India's disastrous first innings collapse, giving the home crowd a reason to believe again.

In Short

• Sarfaraz's ramp-shot left the Bengaluru crowd in awe
• He reached his half-century in just 42 brisk deliveries
• The Sarfaraz-Kohli partnership reignited hopes of India's recovery

Sarfaraz Khan pulled off an unbelievable ramp-shot to send New Zealand’s William O'Rourke for a brilliant boundary during Day 3 of India’s Test against New Zealand in Bengaluru on October 18. Following India's disastrous first innings, the second innings showcased a fiery redemption, and Sarfaraz's shot exemplified India's aggressive approach.

After India captain Rohit Sharma’s unlucky dismissal, Sarfaraz joined Virat Kohli at the crease. Despite being one of five Indian batters dismissed for a duck in the first innings, Sarfaraz came out determined in the second. In the 27th over, O'Rourke bowled a pacey bouncer that Sarfaraz impressively handled, playing a perfectly timed ramp-shot with such an exaggerated arch that he nearly hit the ground. The crowd erupted as the ball raced to the boundary.

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Sarfaraz's aggressive intent paid off, as he went on to reach his 42-ball fifty, his fourth in Test cricket. His confident stroke play, paired with Virat Kohli’s equally brisk batting, lifted the spirits of the Indian crowd at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. Together, their partnership sparked hope for a potential Indian comeback after a dismal start.

This match also adds another highlight to Sarfaraz’s growing reputation in Test cricket. Since his debut against England in February, the Mumbai-based batter has been steadily accumulating notable performances. His ramp-shot boundary was not just a display of skill but a statement of intent, showing Sarfaraz’s readiness to take on challenges under pressure.

As the match progresses, India will be banking on the Sarfaraz-Kohli partnership to help salvage something out of what has otherwise been a tough Test for the side. With both batters in fine form, the Bengaluru crowd will be hoping for a comeback story.