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India’s middle-order batter Sarfaraz Khan may find himself released from the Test squad as reports suggest he will join Mumbai's team for the upcoming Irani Cup.

After missing out on the playing XI for the first Test against Bangladesh, Sarfaraz could be allowed to participate in the domestic competition. 

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Why is Sarfaraz Khan leaving the Indian Test squad?

Sarfaraz Khan was left out of the playing XI for India’s first Test against Bangladesh in Chennai. Now, with the second Test approaching, there are indications that the 26-year-old batter could be released from the squad to participate in the Irani Cup.

Reports from sources suggest that India’s chief selector Ajit Agarkar believes Sarfaraz should get game time in the domestic circuit, especially if he isn't going to feature in the Kanpur Test, which starts on September 27.

“India’s chief selector Ajit Agarkar is keen that, baring any last-minute injuries in the nets or fitness issues to any of the main batsmen in Team India, Sarfaraz should be released from the main squad to allow him to play in the Irani Cup. In any case, it takes just about an hour to reach Lucknow from Kanpur, so Sarfaraz can leave for Lucknow even much after the Kanpur Test has begun,” a source was quoted as saying by TOI.

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The decision is practical as Sarfaraz can travel easily from Kanpur to Lucknow, where the Irani Cup will be held from October 1 to 5. 

What impact will Sarfaraz’s addition have on Mumbai’s Irani Cup team?

If Sarfaraz Khan is released from the national team, he will undoubtedly strengthen Mumbai’s batting unit for the Irani Cup.

With 4,183 First-Class runs to his name, including multiple standout performances, his addition could prove to be a game-changer for Mumbai. He will join a squad that already boasts experienced players like Ajinkya Rahane, Shreyas Iyer, and Prithvi Shaw.

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His domestic experience and consistency have been key factors in Mumbai's previous successes, and his presence will be invaluable as the team faces the Rest of India in this prestigious tournament. 

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Saurav Goyal is a content producer for The Sporting News’ India edition.