The controversy comes amid growing debate over Sarfaraz Khan’s continued omission from national squads despite strong domestic performances.

The three local councillors anticipate Sanae Takaichi’s win will do little to shift the male-dominated world of politics or entrenched expectations that women will prioritise family over career.

Hardline conservative Sanae Takaichi has been elected Japan’s first female prime minister after a whirlwind few weeks of political wrangling.