Former India cricketer Aakash Chopra has questioned the continued exclusion of Sarfaraz Khan from the Test squad, despite his prolific domestic record. Sarfaraz, who last played for India in the New Zealand series, has featured in only six Tests since debuting against England early last year.
Chopra said the issue lies in the “lack of clarity” from selectors and team management. He suggested that Sarfaraz may be perceived as unsuitable for swinging or fast-bowling conditions abroad, particularly in SENA countries. However, Chopra argued that such assumptions can only be validated if the player is given chances. “He is not even being allowed to fail… Sarfaraz should play, or it would be unfair,” he said on Shubhankar Mishra’s YouTube channel.
Sarfaraz’s current Ranji Trophy season has been below his usual standards, scoring 178 runs in five matches after recovering from a quad injury. His absence from India A fixtures also affected selection. Meanwhile, Devdutt Padikkal was picked as an extra batter but has not featured in any home Tests so far.
