Mumbai were dealt a major blow ahead of their Ranji Trophy quarterfinal against Karnataka as middle-order batsman Sarfaraz Khan was hospitalised due to fever and is set to miss the crucial knockout encounter.
Sarfaraz was admitted to hospital on Wednesday after complaining of high fever. Team sources said his condition is stable but recovery is expected to take a few days, making his availability for the quarterfinal highly unlikely.
The 28-year-old has been one of Mumbai’s most consistent performers this Ranji season, scoring heavily in the middle order and providing stability to the batting lineup. His absence is expected to weaken Mumbai’s batting depth against a strong Karnataka side.
Mumbai are scheduled to face Karnataka in the quarterfinal beginning Friday at the Bandra Kurla Complex. The team management is yet to name a replacement, though senior players returning to the squad are expected to shoulder additional responsibility.
Karnataka, featuring several experienced campaigners, will look to take advantage of Mumbai’s setback as both teams eye a place in the semifinals.
