Saransh Jain Receives First Test Call-Up as India Prepares for Sri Lanka Series
Saransh Jain, the Madhya Pradesh all-rounder, has finally been selected for his first Test match with the Indian cricket team. This long-awaited call-up comes after years of impressive performances in domestic cricket. Renowned former Indian spinner, Ravichandran Ashwin, has expressed his support for Jain, highlighting that the 33-year-old truly deserves this opportunity.
On Tuesday, India announced Jain as part of a 15-member squad for an upcoming two-Test series against Sri Lanka. Ashwin, who has been keenly observing Jain’s journey, discussed his thoughts on a recent YouTube episode of “Ash Ki Baat.” He emphasized that Jain has the necessary skills to excel in Test cricket, even though he may face tough competition for a spot on the team.
“I’m really pleased for him. I know his abilities well. He has a unique bowling style and aims to take wickets. He has consistently performed well,” said Ashwin.
Jain’s path to the playing XI may be challenging, especially with established players like Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, and Manav Suthar likely to compete for spin positions. Nevertheless, Ashwin believes Jain will seize his opportunity when it arises.
“I hope he gets his chance. While Manav, Jadeja, and Kuldeep are likely to play, I really wish he would be able to showcase his talent,” Ashwin added.
Jain’s selection is timely, especially since Washington Sundar’s inclusion is dependent on his recovery from a hamstring injury. Jain’s impressive performance during the recent India A tour of Sri Lanka, where he took six wickets and scored a crucial 70 runs, played a key role in earning him this opportunity.
Jain’s Journey of Patience and Hard Work
Hailing from Indore, Jain has built a solid domestic record since his first-class debut for Madhya Pradesh during the 2014-15 season. Over 54 first-class matches, he has amassed over 2,000 runs at an average of 31.75 and claimed 188 wickets at an impressive average of 27.30.
His success has stemmed from steady performance rather than flashy displays. Jain was instrumental in Madhya Pradesh’s first-ever Ranji Trophy victory in 2022 and has enjoyed remarkable seasons that earned him the prestigious Lala Amarnath Award for being the country’s best all-rounder. He also played a standout role in the 2025 Duleep Trophy, taking 16 wickets and helping Central Zone clinch the title.
Behind his achievements lies a powerful story of resilience. During Jain’s early career, his father, Subodh Jain, a former cricketer himself, underwent cancer surgery while Saransh was in Australia. Unable to speak after the surgery, Subodh wrote his son a heartfelt note, encouraging him to remain focused on his cricket journey. Saransh has kept that note close throughout his career, drawing motivation from it during his long wait for this Test call-up.
Should he make his debut in Galle, Jain will become the first specialist off-spinner to debut for India since Washington Sundar in 2021. After years of persistence, this experienced all-rounder now has the opportunity to showcase his talent and fulfill the expectations of both the selectors and Ashwin, who firmly believes in his potential.
The Indian Test Squad for Sri Lanka:
Shubman Gill (Captain), KL Rahul (Vice-Captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rishabh Pant (Wicketkeeper), Sai Sudharsan, Dhruv Jurel (Wicketkeeper), Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Manav Suthar, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Gurnoor Brar, Devdutt Padikkal, and Saransh Jain. Washington Sundar is also included, pending fitness clearance.
- Ends –
