Saransh Jain made his Test debut for India against Sri Lanka in Colombo on Sunday, becoming the 320th player to represent the country in Test cricket.The 33-year-old all-rounder came into the team in place of Kuldeep Yadav, but the biggest moment of his day was sharing the achievement with his family, especially his late father, who inspired him to play cricket.“First of all, I would like to thank God and after that my family. My father is the closest person to me, so I would tell him first (about making Test debut). I started playing cricket because of him, and I will continue to play for him,” Saransh told BCCI after receiving his Test cap.Saransh Jain’s India debut is the result of years of struggle, patience and his father Subodh’s unwavering support.Diagnosed with mouth cancer in 2014, Subodh encouraged Saransh to continue cricket despite his son wanting to quit.After limited Ranji opportunities, Saransh flourished under Chandrakant Pandit, becoming a consistent all-rounder. His strong domestic record finally earned him his long-awaited India call-up.

A special cap from Jadeja

The occasion became even more meaningful when Ravindra Jadeja presented Saransh with his India cap. Saransh said he was happy to receive it from an experienced all-rounder who could motivate him.“Jaddu bhai is a legend and if I am getting the cap from him, it will only benefit me. I am very happy. I wanted to get a cap from an all-rounder who will motivate me. I am an all-rounder myself, so I will try to fulfil my dream,” he added.Jadeja also encouraged the debutant to stay relaxed and treat the Test like another First-Class game. He praised Saransh’s years of hard work in domestic cricket and India A.“Test cap No. 320, Saransh, well done,” Jadeja said. “The hard work that you have done for so many years in domestic cricket and have performed continuously, be it India A or the Ranji Trophy, I think this is a very important opportunity for you in life.”He added, “As a cricketer, everyone has a dream to represent India and become a Test player. You should enjoy this moment. Don’t take pressure at all.”READ ALSO: ‘I fought cancer to see my son play for India’: Saransh Jain’s long road to Test cricketJadeja further reminded Saransh that he had already handled tough domestic matches and had the full support of his teammates.“Just like you have performed in so many domestic matches, play like you are playing another First-Class match. You have all the other 14 players with you to support you. Enjoy this moment instead of taking pressure,” he added.