Sarfaraz Khan: AB de Villiers is my favourite player

Sarfaraz Khan wants to use the IPL as a platform to get into the Indian team

Royal Challengers Bangalore youngster Sarfaraz Khan says he has his eyes set on a berth in India’s squad for the U-19 World Cup which will take place next year. The 17-year-old feels that a good showing in the Indian Premier League (IPL) will see him guaranteed a place in the youth team.

"Mandeep Singh, Sanju Samson, Kuldeep Singh have all done well after playing well in the IPL. I also want to use this platform to be selected for the Indian team. I will try to also be in the team for the forthcoming Under-19 World Cup," he said.

At the age of 16, Sarfaraz scored 211 runs at an average of 70.33 in last year’s U-19 World Cup, which saw him being included in the team of the tournament. His best performance in that tournament came against Pakistan – scoring 74 and picking up figures of 1/10 in 3 overs with the ball – which earned him the Man of the Match award.

The Mumbaikar revealed that AB de Villiers is his favourite cricketer and said that he is grateful to be playing in the same team as the South African star.

"AB de Villiers is my favourite player. AB always gives me all the tips. When I am nervous, he comes over and talks to me. It feels good when such a big player comes and speaks. Coach (Daniel Vettori) also supported me and encouraged me. He told me not to think too much, but to play my natural game," he said.

Sarfaraz further spoke about what he was thinking about during his innings against the Rajasthan Royals on Wednesday.

"Despite the early loss of wickets, we hit a plan to play all 20 overs with a plan, and somebody needs to be till the 20th over. I grabbed this role - a ruse which helped us get 200 runs on the board. I got a lot of confidence from that knock, and I hope to do better for myself and my team," he added.