Sarfaraz’s Solid Start Ignored by Selectors
Despite boasting a stellar domestic record and a strong start to his international career, Sarfaraz Khan has been excluded from India’s Test squad for the England tour. His omission has sparked controversy, especially given his consistent performances when given limited opportunities.
Outstanding Debut Overlooked
Sarfaraz made his debut in the home Test series against England last year, scoring half-centuries in both innings of the opening match. He later smashed a magnificent 150 against New Zealand—one of the very few notable individual performances during India’s humiliating 0-3 series defeat.
No Playing Time in Australia Tour
Benchwarmer Despite Selection
Sarfaraz was part of India’s main squad for the Australia tour, but never got a game. Coach Gautam Gambhir favored Washington Sundar on pace-friendly pitches, leaving Sarfaraz warming the bench throughout the series.
Aakash Chopra Slams Team Management Over ‘Unfair Treatment’
Cricketer-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra voiced his concerns over Sarfaraz’s repeated snubs. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Chopra criticized the inconsistency in selection and questioned the logic behind sidelining a player who has yet to fail at the international level.
“He Hasn’t Done Anything Wrong” – Chopra
“Sarfaraz Khan hasn’t done anything wrong. He scored 92 in the one India A match he played, and still wasn’t picked for the next. Now he’s not even in the Test squad. It just doesn’t add up.”
Sarfaraz was dropped from the playing XI for the second unofficial Test against the England Lions, despite scoring 92 in the first game. His exclusion coincided with senior batter KL Rahul joining the squad.
“Don’t Even Send Him with India A” – Chopra’s Sharp Take
Call for Clarity and Accountability
Chopra emphasized that if the selectors lack faith in Sarfaraz’s technique, they should make a clean decision instead of sending him on tours without playing him.
“If you think he can’t handle conditions in England or Australia, don’t even send him with India A. Don’t keep giving him false hope.”
Mounting Pressure on Gambhir and Agarkar
The decision has put head coach Gautam Gambhir and chief selector Ajit Agarkar under the scanner. With players like Sai Sudharsan and Karun Nair being picked ahead of Sarfaraz, many believe a more transparent and merit-based selection policy is urgently needed.
