IND vs WI: India’s 15-member Test squad for the upcoming home series against the West Indies was announced on Thursday, September 25, and while most of the names were expected, the absence of middle-order batter Sarfaraz Khan raised quite a few eyebrows. Over the past few seasons, Sarfaraz has consistently been one of the top performers in domestic cricket, making his omission from the squad a hot topic once again.
However, chief selector Ajit Agarkar provided much-needed clarity during the squad announcement press conference, putting speculation to rest. According to Agarkar, Sarfaraz Khan is currently nursing a minor injury – referred to as a “niggle” and is not fully fit to be considered for the two-match Test series.
🚨 Presenting #TeamIndia's squad for the West Indies Test series 🔽#INDvWI | @IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/S4D5mDGJNN
— BCCI (@BCCI) September 25, 2025
Not About Form, But Fitness
It’s important to note that Sarfaraz’s exclusion has nothing to do with his form. In fact, his recent domestic numbers have only strengthened his case for national selection. In a bid to improve his chances, the Mumbai batter has also undergone a significant physical transformation, working on his fitness and adopting a leaner physique – a step welcomed by many within the cricketing circles.
But unfortunately for Sarfaraz, timing hasn’t been on his side. Despite doing the hard yards, a minor injury at a crucial juncture has kept him out of contention. Agarkar made it clear that Sarfaraz needs to be fully fit before he can be considered again for national duty.
“Sarfaraz is carrying a niggle. He’s not fully fit and hence wasn’t available for selection. It’s not about his form – he’s been doing well. But fitness is non-negotiable at this level,” Agarkar said.
The Wait Continues
For fans and cricket watchers who have been advocating for Sarfaraz’s inclusion, this is another moment of disappointment. The 25-year-old has been one of the most prolific run-scorers in the domestic circuit over the past few seasons, and calls for his selection have grown louder with each passing series. Yet, the door is not shut. The selectors have acknowledged his talent and will likely give him his due once he’s physically ready.
A Case of Unfortunate Timing
Injuries are part and parcel of an athlete’s life, but for someone like Sarfaraz, who is so close to a potential Test debut, this setback could feel especially frustrating. His journey has already been filled with hurdles from early-career inconsistencies to perceptions about his fitness but he has shown grit and commitment to overcome those.
Now, the focus will be on recovery. If Sarfaraz can regain full fitness soon and continue performing at the domestic level, it might just be a matter of time before he wears the India Test cap.
Until then, the wait for Sarfaraz Khan continues but not without hope.
Also Read: India squad for West Indies Tests: Reason behind exclusion of Mohammed Shami and Karun Nair revealed
