India surprised many by handing a maiden Test call-up to Saransh Jain for the upcoming two-match series against Sri Lanka. The 33-year-old off-spinning all-rounder has earned his place after years of consistent performances in domestic cricket and is now in line to make his international debut.
Here are five interesting facts about India’s newest Test squad member.
1. Excellent first-class numbers
Saransh Jain has established himself as one of the finest all-rounders in Indian domestic cricket. In 54 first-class matches, he has scored 2,223 runs at an average of 31.75, including two centuries and 14 fifties.
With the ball, the off-spinner has taken 187 wickets at an impressive average of 24.72, registering 13 five-wicket hauls and one 10-wicket match haul. Jain has also played 47 List A matches, scoring 872 runs and claiming 57 wickets, while in 31 T20s, he has picked up 25 wickets.
2. A key performer for Madhya Pradesh
Jain made his first-class debut for Madhya Pradesh in 2014 and has since become one of the team’s most dependable players. His ability to contribute with both bat and ball has made him a vital cog in the side across formats. Over the years, he has delivered several match-winning performances, helping Madhya Pradesh remain one of the strongest teams in India’s domestic circuit.
3. Duleep Trophy hero before India selection
The 33-year-old strengthened his case for national selection with a sensational campaign in the 2025-26 Duleep Trophy. He finished as the tournament’s highest wicket-taker with 16 wickets in four matches and was named the Player of the Tournament, catching the attention of the national selectors ahead of the Sri Lanka tour.
4. Family sacrifices behind his success
Saransh Jain’s journey to Team India is one of perseverance and sacrifice. Reports suggest that his father kept his battle with cancer hidden to ensure Saransh remained focused on cricket, while his brother gave up his own cricketing ambitions to support the family and help him pursue his dream. Their unwavering support played a crucial role in his rise to the international stage.
5. Backed by Harbhajan Singh
Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh has been one of Saransh Jain’s strongest supporters. Harbhajan recently praised Jain’s wicket-taking mindset, saying he is a genuine frontline off-spinner rather than a batter who can bowl off-spin. The former India star also backed Jain to succeed in Test cricket, highlighting his ability to consistently dismiss batters in domestic cricket.
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