Senior political leaders allege that prolific batsman’s exclusion may involve community-based bias, while selectors insist performance and form dictate choices
NEW DELHI – The debate over prolific batsman Sarfaraz Khan’s non-selection in the India-A squad against South Africa A has intensified, with allegations of bias and religious discrimination dominating public and political discourse. Senior leaders from multiple parties have voiced concerns, highlighting the issue as part of a larger conversation about transparency and minority representation in Indian sports.
Senior Samajwadi Party leader and former Member of Parliament ST Hasan raised serious concerns regarding the selection process. Speaking to IANS, Hasan said, “The way players are selected for Indian teams raises suspicions that being Muslim influences selection. Sports is for the country, not for any religion or community.”
Hasan further emphasised that Muslims have been facing targeted discrimination over the last decade, and these patterns are now spilling into the realm of sports. “There has been no transparency in any examination or selection process in the country, and sports is no exception,” he added.
Meanwhile, Shiv Sena spokesperson Sanjay Nirupam dismissed claims of religious discrimination, describing them as “extremely disgusting and unfortunate.” He said, “If such discrimination existed, Mohammad Azharuddin would never have become the captain of the Indian team. Selection is always based on a player’s form and ability, not religion. Sarfaraz’s non-selection can only be a matter of performance and form.” Nirupam also criticised attempts to divide cricket along religious lines, warning that such actions “weaken the sporting spirit of the country.”
The Congress party has also joined the conversation, with national spokesperson Dr Shama Mohammed questioning Sarfaraz Khan’s non-selection. Writing on Instagram, she asked, “Was Sarfaraz Khan not selected because of his surname? We know where Gautam Gambhir (head coach) stands on this issue.” She pointed out that Sarfaraz has notably improved his fitness, lost weight, and consistently delivered impressive performances in domestic cricket, including a first-class average of 110.47 over the last five years, yet he continues to be overlooked.
AIMIM national spokesperson Waris Pathan echoed Dr Shama’s concerns, highlighting the young cricketer’s achievements. “Why stop a young talent who is rapidly making his mark? It was initially said that he was unfit, but Sarfaraz worked hard to improve his fitness. His average is good and he performs well. Why was he still not selected?” Pathan demanded accountability from the selectors, warning against compromising the future of promising players like Sarfaraz.
The controversy has ignited wider debate over the inclusivity and fairness of selection processes in Indian cricket. While some political figures stress performance and merit as the sole criteria, the growing concern among minority communities over potential bias reflects deeper societal tensions. Fans and activists are calling for greater transparency and accountability from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to ensure that talent is recognised without prejudice.
With the cricketing calendar proceeding at a rapid pace, the issue has become a talking point across social media, political platforms, and sports forums. Supporters of Sarfaraz Khan continue to urge selectors to reconsider the young player, highlighting his proven track record and dedication as evidence that merit should prevail over perceived communal biases.
Sarfaraz made a strong impression in his youth, breaking Sachin Tendulkar’s record in the Harris Shield with a staggering 439 off 421 balls at just 12 years old. He went on to represent India in two Under-19 World Cups.
In domestic cricket, Sarfaraz has consistently delivered for Mumbai and Uttar Pradesh, showcasing his skills as a middle-order batter and occasional wicket-keeper. His first-class cricket record is impressive, with over 4,600 runs in 55 matches.
Sarfaraz made his international debut against England in February 2024, scoring twin fifties (62 and 68 not out) and helping India secure a massive win. His strike rate of 94.2 is the highest among batters with two fifty-plus scores on debut in men’s Tests.
As the debate on his non-inclusion unfolds, the situation underscores broader questions about equality, representation, and trust in national sports institutions, emphasising the importance of fair selection practices in fostering both talent and national unity.
