India continued their preparations for the upcoming Test series against England oneDay 2 of their intra-squad match at Kent County Ground in Beckenham on Saturday. The day showcased a blend of encouraging performances and areas of concern. Sarfaraz Khan was the standout performer with a blistering century, while senior pacer Jasprit Bumrah ended the day without claiming a wicket.

Following Shubman Gill and KL Rahul‘s impressive half-centuries on Day 1, Sarfaraz, representing India A, grabbed the spotlight on Day 2. Although he wasn’t included in India’s official squad for the five-match series, the 27-year-old right-handed batter produced a scintillating 101 runs from just 76 balls, which included 15 boundaries and two sixes.

Sarfaraz’s absence from the primary squad came as a surprise to many, including both fans and analysts. However, his consistent performances have continued to impress. Along with his century, he also scored 92 in the first unofficial Test against the England Lions. Across six Test matches, he has scored 371 runs at an average of 37.10, including a memorable 150-run knock against New Zealand in Bengaluru.

India’s bowlers had a mixed performance on Day 2. Jasprit Bumrah, despite a promising start, failed to take any wickets and gave away more than five runs per over. Mohammed Siraj managed to take two wickets, but he was costly, giving away more than seven runs per over. Prasidh Krishna also picked up two wickets, while Nitish Kumar Reddy dismissed Abhimanyu Easwaran for 39 runs.

As Day 2 came to a close, India A were 299 for 6, trailing India by 160 runs. Sai Sudharsan made 38 runs off 60 balls, whereas Ishan Kishan played a quick knock of 45 from 55 deliveries. Washington Sundar, who was dismissed for a duck in the first innings, bounced back with a score of 35 runs. India A captain Ruturaj Gaikwad was dismissed for a duck.

This match, played behind closed doors, is India’s final warm-up before the England series.