Ricky Ponting criticizes India selectors for not picking Sarfaraz Khan in tests

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting feels sorry for India's domestic middle-order batsman Sarfaraz Khan.

Former Australia skipper Ricky Ponting didn't hold back his empathy for Sarfaraz Khan, acknowledging that he genuinely felt sorry for the talented batsman. Sarfaraz's exceptional first-class cricket average only intensified Ponting's frustration with the Indian selectors, who have failed to provide him with an opportunity.

The exclusion of Sarfaraz Khan from the team has ignited a wave of controversy, resulting in widespread criticism directed at the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the selectors. Ponting's disappointment aligned with the sentiments of many, as he voiced his dissatisfaction with the selectors' decision to overlook Sarfaraz, despite his remarkable performance record in first-class cricket.

“The one I do feel a little bit sorry for is Sarfaraz Khan. The fact that he hasn’t got a look in a Test squad just yet considering he averages in the high 80s I think in first-class cricket, which is absolutely unheard of, but for some reason, they keep picking these other guys ahead of him,” Ponting said on Sarafarz in ICC review.

In his career so far, Sarfaraz has played 38 first-class matches and scored a total of 3,511 runs at an average of 76. He has an impressive record of 13 centuries and 9 half-centuries to his name. Additionally, he has also achieved the milestone of scoring a triple century,

Sarfaraz Khan flops in Duleep Trophy

When the BCCI revealed the Test squad for the series against West Indies, Yashasvi Jaiswal and Ruturaj Gaikwad were given their maiden call-ups, while Sarfaraz Khan was not included.

According to certain reports, Sarfaraz's omission was not based on his on-field performances but rather on alleged disciplinary issues. However, sources close to the player denied these claims.

The news of Sarfaraz Khan's exclusion from the Test team surprised fans and former players alike. Known for his impressive performances in domestic cricket, Sarfaraz's absence sparked widespread discussions and disappointment. Although he had an opportunity to prove himself in the Duleep Trophy, he could only manage to score 6 runs across 3 innings.