The BCCI has dropped a selection bombshell ahead of the crucial Test series in the Caribbean, announcing a 15-man India squad that sees Sarfaraz Khan and Axar Patel return — while star pacer Mohammed Siraj has been surprisingly left out, sparking heated debates among fans and experts!
Fresh from his record-breaking triple century in the Ranji Trophy, Sarfaraz Khan has finally earned his maiden Test call-up, delighting fans who’ve long demanded his inclusion. The Mumbai run-machine’s selection is seen as a big boost for India’s middle-order options as they look to rebuild after a disappointing overseas run.
All-rounder Axar Patel also returns to the red-ball squad, giving the team another spin-bowling option and batting depth in Caribbean conditions expected to assist turn.
But the biggest shocker was the omission of Mohammed Siraj, who struggled for consistency in recent Tests. The selectors opted to give him rest after a heavy workload, but the move has divided opinion. Some experts believe Siraj deserved more backing, while others argue his dip in form warranted a break.
Here’s the official 15-member squad for India’s West Indies Tests:
✅ Rohit Sharma (Captain) – Leading from the front with his wealth of experience.
✅ Shubman Gill – Expected to continue as India’s new No. 3 after solid performances.
✅ Yashasvi Jaiswal – The aggressive left-hander retains his spot at the top.
✅ Virat Kohli – Senior pro key to India’s batting fortunes overseas.
✅ Sarfaraz Khan – Earns maiden Test call-up after stunning domestic form.
✅ Ajinkya Rahane (Vice-Captain) – Back as deputy, provides vital experience.
✅ KS Bharat (WK) – Preferred wicketkeeper for the series.
✅ Ishan Kishan (WK) – Adds X-factor with attacking batting, second wicketkeeper option.
✅ Ravindra Jadeja – The all-rounder’s control and lower-order batting crucial.
✅ Axar Patel – Returns to strengthen spin attack and deepen batting.
✅ Ravichandran Ashwin – India’s ace spinner, expected to lead the spin department.
✅ Jasprit Bumrah – Premier fast bowler, crucial for early breakthroughs.
✅ Mukesh Kumar – Right-arm seamer rewarded for strong domestic showings.
✅ Avesh Khan – Adds pace and bounce, replacement for Siraj.
✅ Prasidh Krishna – Tall quick picked for his extra zip and bounce.
The announcement set social media ablaze with hashtags like #SarfarazDebut, #SirajDropped, and #IndiaVsWI trending within minutes. Fans debated whether Siraj’s exclusion was fair and whether Sarfaraz will finally get his chance to shine in the whites.
Former India star Harbhajan Singh told a news channel, “Sarfaraz’s inclusion is overdue, but Siraj’s absence is surprising. Hopefully, it helps him come back stronger.”
Will India’s new-look squad deliver in the Caribbean and start the new WTC cycle on a winning note? The debate rages on — and all eyes will be on Sarfaraz Khan’s long-awaited Test debut!