New Delhi, July 22 -- After being snubbed for the high-profile England Test series, Indian batter Sarfaraz Khan has undergone a remarkable transformation off the field, shedding 17 kilos in a determined effort to silence critics and reclaim his spot in the national side.

Despite a strong start to his Test career and a stellar domestic record, the 27-year-old was overlooked for the five-match Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, with selectors opting for Sai Sudharsan and Karun Nair. Sarfaraz, who was part of the squad during the Australia tour but didn't get a game, was again sidelined, with coach Gautam Gambhir favouring Washington Sundar on seam-friendly pitches.

Fitness, particularly weight, has long been seen as a hurdle in Sarfaraz's interna...