Sarfaraz Khan—a name that’s become synonymous with domestic dominance—has once again been left out of India’s squads, and this time, it’s drawn fiery criticism from veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin. The omission from the recent India A squad has reignited a debate that’s been simmering for years: is talent alone enough to break into the Indian cricket team?
Why Sarfaraz Khan’s Omission Has Sparked Outrage
At 28, Sarfaraz Khan isn’t a newcomer. He’s been piling up runs in the Ranji Trophy for over a decade, boasting a stellar first-class average well above 60. He’s also shed significant weight to meet fitness benchmarks and delivered match-winning knocks against top international attacks during India A tours. Yet, his name remains absent from official squads.
Ashwin didn’t mince words. In a candid outburst, he questioned the logic behind the selectors’ decision, led by chief selector Ajit Agarkar. “Had I been the selector…,” Ashwin remarked, implying he would’ve given Sarfaraz a fair shot . His frustration underscores a growing sentiment among fans and former players alike: that consistent domestic performance is being undervalued.
Agarkar’s Defense: “Sometimes You Just Have to Make Good Decisions”
In response, Agarkar has offered a cryptic justification. Speaking to reporters, he stated, “Sometimes you just have to make good decisions,” hinting that the selection was strategic rather than a reflection of Sarfaraz’s ability . Reports suggest the committee favored Karun Nair due to his recent form and perceived adaptability to overseas conditions .
But critics argue that Sarfaraz has already proven his mettle abroad—scoring heavily against England Lions and New Zealand A sides. So why the continued exclusion?
Sarfaraz Khan: The Domestic Giant Ignored
Let’s look at the numbers that tell a compelling story:
| Metric | Sarfaraz Khan | Domestic Avg (Top 10 Batters) |
|---|---|---|
| First-Class Average | 63.42 | ~45-50 |
| Ranji Trophy Runs (2024-25) | 850+ | Varies |
| Centuries in Last 3 Seasons | 12 | 5-7 (avg) |
Despite these figures, Sarfaraz remains on the fringes. Ashwin believes this sends the wrong message to aspiring cricketers: that excellence in domestic cricket may not be enough .
What This Means for Indian Cricket’s Future
The Sarfaraz saga raises deeper questions about selection transparency and long-term planning. Are selectors prioritizing short-term fixes over nurturing proven talent? With India preparing for crucial Test series and the 2027 World Test Championship final, overlooking a player of Sarfaraz’s caliber could prove costly.
Former players like Ashwin aren’t just voicing personal opinions—they’re highlighting a systemic issue. If the BCCI and selectors don’t address this disconnect, they risk demotivating a generation of domestic performers.