Why Sarfaraz Khan was not picked for West Indies Tests
What's the story
Sarfaraz Khan, India's contracted cricketer, has not played in a Test match since the home series against New Zealand in 2024. He is currently part of Mumbai's Ranji Trophy squad but was not picked for the upcoming India A series against South Africa A. This has raised concerns among fans about his future in the national team for the home Test season.
Fitness issues
NOC delay caused Sarfaraz's exclusion from the West Indies tour
Sarfaraz was omitted from the West Indies tour due to injury concerns. However, a recent social media post hinted at his full fitness, leading to some confusion. According to reports from Express Sports, Sarfaraz did not receive a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from BCCI's Center of Excellence until September 27, while the squad was announced on September 25.
Prospects
Speculations about Sarfaraz's future in national team
The exclusion from the West Indies series and the India A squad has led to speculations about Sarfaraz's future in the national team. Reports suggest that he wasn't chosen for the West Indies tour as he was not match-fit and had not cleared his fitness test in time with the Center of Excellence (COE).
Performance review
Sarfaraz dropped for England Test series
Sarfraz is vying for a national comeback. He was excluded from the England Test series this year. The 27-year-old was part of India's squad for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series in Australia but didn't get a chance to play in any of the five matches. Sarfaraz's last appearance in Tests was during New Zealand's tour of India last year. He scored a brilliant 150 in Bengaluru but managed just 21 runs in four innings thereafter.
Return
Will he bounce back?
Despite scoring two half-centuries in his debut Test, against England at home last year, Sarfaraz was ignored for the England tour. His absence saw Karun Nair and Sai Sudharsan prevail. However, with an impressive average of over 65 in First-Class cricket, Sarfaraz has made a strong case for inclusion in India's home Test season. Sarfaraz owns 16 tons in 56 First-Class matches. He averages 37.10 in six Tests.