Bahutule reflects on Saransh’s domestic to international journey

Saransh Jain made his international Test debut for India in the second and final Test against Sri Lanka at Colombo, which began on Sunday, August 23. The 33-year-old spin-bowling all-rounder replaced left-arm spinner Kuldeep Yadav, who was recovering from a viral infection. India led the two-match series 1-0 following their 165-run victory in the first Test at Galle.

Jain arrived at his debut with substantial domestic credentials. He had played 54 first-class matches before his Test bow, taking 188 wickets at an average of 27.31 while also scoring 2,223 runs. His first-class career began in the 2014-15 Ranji Trophy on December 21, 2014, when he played for Madhya Pradesh.

Sairaj Bahutule, India’s spin-bowling coach, reflected on Jain’s journey of perseverence in domestic cricket, which has led him to the international circuit.

“For me, Saransh has toiled a lot in domestic cricket over the years. And he has got his fair due. And that opportunity to make a debut for India is special,” Bahutule said at the press conference after Day 4.

Character shown despite early setbacks

Jain faced early setbacks during Sri Lanka’s first innings when certain decisions did not go in his favour, but he maintained composure and consistency throughout his bowling spell. He picked up two wickets which were cancelled by the DRS. Bahutule acknowledged the mental challenge of playing a Test match for the first time, where the pressure differs significantly from domestic cricket.

“There are nerves. You are not going to be as at ease when you are playing your first Test match compared to when you are playing a domestic game. But he showed a lot of character in spite of certain decisions not going in his way and him not getting those wickets early in the first innings,” Bahutule said.

On Day 4, Jain claimed his first two Test wickets in quick succession. He dismissed Lahiru Kumara for 12 and Sonal Dinusha for 103, finishing with figures of 2 for 69 in Sri Lanka’s first innings, which totalled 290. India had declared their first innings at 503 for 9, establishing a lead of 213 runs, and Shubman Gill enforced the follow-on. Jain also dismissed Niroshan Dickwella in Sri Lanka’s second innings.

Distinctive bowling attributes and variety

Bahutule praised Jain’s distinctive bowling attributes and the variety he brings to India’s spin attack. The coach highlighted Jain’s unique skill set, which sets him apart from other spinners in the squad and provides tactical flexibility.

“He is a peculiar bowler, a unique bowler in the sense he doesn’t have that over-spin, which is again work in progress behind the scenes. He possesses that side-spin which is good, which gives him that drift. His flat trajectory is very good. And he is also of a speed range between 80-85. And that makes him unique. When we have two more spinners with Jaddu and Manav, he brings that variety,” Bahutule said.

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The former India spinner summed up Jain’s overall contribution to the match effort and his performance under pressure.

“I think he put in a fabulous effort. Whatever role was given to him, he has played it to the best. And whenever he got that opportunity, he picked up wickets and got us back into the game,” Bahutule said.

By stumps on Day 4, Sri Lanka had reached 229 for 6 in their second innings, moving 16 runs ahead with four wickets remaining.

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