Colombo, August 24, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
India debutant Saransh Jain said he always believed his consistent performances in domestic cricket would eventually earn him a Test cap, describing his debut against Sri Lanka as a moment filled with mixed emotions.
The Indore-based off-spin bowling all-rounder made his Test debut in the ongoing second Test at the SSC Ground after left-arm wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav was ruled out with a viral infection. Senior all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja presented Jain with his India Test cap.
Reflecting on the achievement, Jain said representing India had been his dream since he began playing cricket. However, he added that he was confident he would get his opportunity even if the debut had not come immediately.
“I had mixed emotions. When I received the cap, I was happy and excited,” Jain said in a conversation with broadcasters ahead of the second day’s play.
He recalled that he had always believed he would represent India within the next couple of years, crediting his experience in red-ball cricket with Madhya Pradesh, Central Zone and India A.
Jain said long-term exposure to first-class cricket had helped him develop the skills needed for the longest format, which he considers the ultimate test for a cricketer.
“I feel that red-ball cricket requires a little more skill and more time. If you become very good at red-ball cricket and develop your skills there, white-ball cricket will also become easier for you,” he said.
Jain was dismissed for six early on the second day, but his off-spin is expected to be an important part of India’s bowling attack later in the match. He will share the spin duties with Jadeja and left-arm spinner Manav Suthar.
The debut marks a significant milestone in Jain’s career after years of sustained domestic cricket and represents the culmination of his progression through India’s red-ball pathway.
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