Middle-order batter Sarfaraz Khan underwent a rigorous transformation, shedding nearly 17 kgs in hopes of reviving his international career after being unexpectedly omitted from India’s Test squad for the ongoing Anderson-Tendulkar Series against England.
Working tirelessly with his father — his lifelong coach — Sarfaraz dedicated the past few months to intense fitness training. Having gone unsold in the Indian Premier League 2025, the batter channelled that disappointment into his weight-loss mission.
In Sarfaraz’s absence, Karun Nair was picked by the selection committee for the England tour as the Karnataka batter made his India comeback after eight years.
Former England star Kevin Pietersen praised Sarfaraz’s dedication, predicting it would translate to improved on-field performances.
Posting on X, Pietersen wrote: “Outstanding effort, young man! Huge congrats and I’m sure it’s going to lead to better and more consistent performances on the field. I love the time you’ve spent reorganising your priorities! LFG!”
In a pointed remark, he added: “Can someone show Prithvi this please? It can be done! Strong body, strong mind!” referencing out-of-form Prithvi Shaw, who has faced persistent criticism regarding his fitness.
Outstanding effort, young man! Huge congrats and I’m sure it’s going to lead to better and more consistent performances on the field. I love the time you’ve spent reorganising your priorities!
LFG! 🚀
Can someone show Prithvi this please?
It can be done!
Strong body, strong… https://t.co/U6KbUXlfVf— Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) July 21, 2025
Shaw was dropped by the Mumbai senior selection committee last year from a Ranji Trophy game due to poor fitness and was prescribed a two-week fitness programme prepared by the MCA trainers. The team management had informed MCA that Prithvi Shaw’s body contains 35 percent fat and that he needs rigorous training before he gets back into the side.
Last October, the selection committee of MCA had taken a call that Shaw needed to shed off a few kilos, if he wants to play for the Mumbai team again. His fitness and form never improved and as a result the selection committee decided to drop him from Vijay Hazare Trophy too which was played in December 2024.
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Shaw moved away from Mumbai and is set to play for Maharashtra from the next domestic season after receiving a NOC from MCA.
