Sarfaraz Khan Scores One Run in Ranji Trophy Amid Debate Over India A Non-Selection

Mumbai batsman Sarfaraz Khan endured a brief and disappointing outing in the Ranji Trophy on Sunday, dismissed for just one run against Chhattisgarh at the Bandra-Kurla Complex amid ongoing debate over his exclusion from the India A squad. The 27-year-old, widely regarded as one of domestic cricket’s most prolific run-scorers, fell in the sixth over to left-arm spinner Aditya Sarwate, attempting an aggressive lofted shot only to be caught in the deep by Punjab Kings’ Shashank Singh after facing six deliveries. The dismissal came on a seamer-friendly pitch where Mumbai were reduced to 45 for 3 by lunch, underscoring the challenges Sarfaraz faced upon returning from injury.

The low score arrived just days after Sarfaraz was surprisingly omitted from the India A team touring South Africa, sparking widespread criticism from fans, former players, and analysts who pointed to his stellar first-class record—over 4,000 runs at an average above 70, including 14 centuries. In his previous Ranji outing against Jammu & Kashmir in Srinagar, he had scored 42 and 32, showing signs of regaining form post-injury. His non-selection for India A has fuelled speculation about national selectors prioritising younger prospects, despite Sarfaraz’s proven ability to anchor innings under pressure, often batting at No. 4 or 5 when Mumbai lose early wickets.

Mumbai captain Shardul Thakur strongly backed Sarfaraz, asserting that the batsman no longer needs India A exposure to stake a claim for the senior Test side. “Sarfaraz doesn’t need India A games to play international cricket,” Thakur said ahead of the match. “If he gets back to scoring, he can straightaway go and play a Test series.” He highlighted Sarfaraz’s pre-injury form in the Buchi Babu Trophy—where he notched multiple centuries—and his knack for delivering 200-plus scores in crisis situations, calling him “one of the special players who never disappoints.”

Also Read: Women's World Cup: Rain Delays Toss in Navi Mumbai as India Eye Winning Finish Against Bangladesh

Despite the early setback, Sarfaraz remains a vital cog in Mumbai’s 42-time Ranji-winning machine and a persistent contender for higher honours. With India’s Test calendar packed—including a home series against England and an away tour to Australia—consistent domestic performances could yet force selectors to reconsider. As Mumbai aim to recover in the second innings, Sarfaraz’s resilience, backed by Thakur and a legion of supporters, will be under scrutiny once more.

Also Read: "Respect In Own Hands": Kaif Decodes Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli Post-Match Scene