For young left-arm spin-bowling all-rounderManav Suthar, earning his maiden India call-up was a moment years in the making. The 23-year-old revealed that it was his sister who first informed him about his selection for the Indian team after spotting his name in the squad announced for the one-off Test against Afghanistan.
Suthar was handed his Test debut in the match at Mullanpur and received his maiden India cap from senior spinner Kuldeep Yadav before the start of play. The youngster also became
India’s first specialist spin-bowling Test debutant since Axar Patel made his debut in 2021.
Suthar recalled the unforgettable moment when he found out about his selection.
“I was in my room when my sister called me. Maybe she was watching the squad announcement event. She told me that my name had come up in the Indian team. I asked her if it was official. She said yes, it’s official. She was the first one to call me,” said Suthar while speaking to JioStar.
Suthar further admitted that his impressive performances in domestic cricket and for India A had given him confidence that an opportunity with the senior national side was not far away. Having already experienced the IPL with Gujarat Titans under the leadership of Shubman Gill, he remained patient despite limited opportunities in previous seasons.
“I had a great domestic season. I performed well for India A too. My name was being discussed, and I knew the call could come anytime. It was a waiting game, but I stayed patient. I made my IPL debut in 2024 with Gujarat Titans. I played only one game that season. I didn’t get a chance to play in 2025, but I played four games in 2026, and it felt good to be back on the field,” he continued.
With his long-awaited India debut finally becoming a reality, Suthar expressed gratitude for the journey and the sacrifices that helped him reach this stage.
“Now, all the hard work in domestic cricket and for India A has paid off. I am in the playing XI for the Afghanistan Test, making my international debut. It is a dream come true. All the sacrifices have finally paid off. I feel proud, grateful, and ready to give my best for the country,” Manav concluded.
The left-arm spinner enjoyed a memorable start to his international career, making an immediate impact with the ball on Day 2 of the one-off Test against Afghanistan. Suthar claimed three crucial wickets while maintaining exceptional control, finishing with figures of 3/21 from 15.5 overs.
His impressive spell helped India tighten their grip on the contest, with the hosts ending Day 2 in a commanding position and holding a massive lead of 451 runs.
