Saransh Jain will make his Test debut for India against Sri Lanka in the second Test in Colombo on Sunday, August 23. The off-spin bowling all-rounder comes into the playing XI in place of Kuldeep Yadav.
Jain was seen receiving his India cap in the team huddle before the toss. Kuldeep was left out after the team confirmed that he had not fully recovered from his viral illness.
The 33-year-old has earned his Test debut after several years of consistent performances in domestic cricket. The Indore-based cricketer has been a key performer for Madhya Pradesh in First-Class cricket.
Jain has played 54 First-Class matches and scored 2,223 runs at an average of 31.75. He has also taken 188 wickets at an average of 27.30.
His recent domestic form also helped him earn the call-up. Jain was named Player of the Tournament in the 2025-26 Duleep Trophy while representing Central Zone.
Injury Opens Door for Jain
Jain’s inclusion in the India squad was helped by an injury to Washington Sundar. Washington was India’s only specialist off-spinner during the team’s recent tour of England.
Jain had also impressed during India A’s tour of Sri Lanka earlier this year. He scored an unbeaten 70 and took six wickets during the tour.
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Those performances strengthened his case for a place in the Test squad. He now gets his opportunity at the international level against Sri Lanka.
First India Off-Spinner Since Washington
Jain becomes the first off-spinner to make his Test debut for India since Washington Sundar in January 2021. His selection adds another spin option to India’s playing XI for the Colombo Test.
His debut also marks the latest step in a long domestic career. Jain has built his record through regular performances for Madhya Pradesh and Central Zone.
The second Test against Sri Lanka begins in Colombo on Sunday, August 23. Jain will now look to make an impact with both bat and ball in his first Test for India.
