‘Pick Him, Weight Or Not’: Chris Gayle’s blunt message on Sarfaraz Khan

Sarfaraz Khan has dropped 17 kilos to push his way back into India’s Test plans, but Chris Gayle says the runs should have been enough already. In a fiery note to chief selector Ajit Agarkar, the West Indies great urged India to back Sarfaraz on cricketing merit, not waistlines. The debate has caught fire again as India gear up for a busy home season and a likely Test series against West Indies in October.

Why this blew up now

Sarfaraz’s weight had often been cited as a reason for hesitancy, despite his mountain of domestic runs. He answered with action—shedding 17 kg and tightening his routine—while keeping the focus on batting long and batting big. The timing matters: squads for the next Test block are around the corner, and every strong signal counts.

Gayle’s message to Agarkar

Gayle didn’t mince words: pick Sarfaraz for Tests. He argued that centuries on debut home assignments and multiple triple tons in first-class cricket show a player ready for the grind. The punchline was simple—“weight or not,” a proven red-ball run machine deserves a run in the XI. It was both a vote of confidence and a nudge at selection caution.

The case for Sarfaraz

• He has converted domestic form into international statements, including a hundred at home against New Zealand.

• His first-class record is stacked with big scores and the temperament to bat time.

• The 17‑kg transformation shows commitment to standards without changing the core of his game.

What India need in the middle

India’s Test middle order needs two steady things: a bankable No. 5/6 who can absorb pressure and an innings-extender who turns 40s into 120s. Sarfaraz checks both boxes when backed for a run of matches. Slotting him alongside a senior hand creates protection from both ends—security first, tempo later.

Fitness vs form: finding the balance

Fitness benchmarks keep standards high, but selection should reward recent runs and role fit. Sarfaraz’s transformation narrows that debate—he has chased the bar while keeping his scoring habits intact. If the choice is between “perfect body” and “proven runs under pressure,” the Test format usually trusts the latter.

What could happen next

• Selection watch: India’s home Tests start in early October.

• Role clarity: No. 5/6 with a license to bat time and cash in.

• Pathway: carry through the home season, then reassess once away tours begin.

Sarfaraz snapshot