Tamil Nadu wicketkeeper-batter Narayan Jagadeesan has received his maiden Test call-up for India, joining the team in England as cover for injured Rishabh Pant before the fifth Test at The Oval. The 29-year-old, who hasn't played for India A yet, was called in after Pant was out of action for six weeks with a foot injury.
Jagadeesan will provide cover for Dhruv Jurel in the team. The call came as a total shock to him, as he was getting ready for a practice session when the news was broken to him. Although he might not make his debut immediately, the call-up is a huge leap in his career and indicates that he is now in the national selectors' thinking.
Also Read | Watch: Stump Mic Reveals KL Rahul Warning Gill About Wrong Review
Jagadeesan Credits Robin Uthappa for Guidance
Following the announcement, Jagadeesan addressed TOI and credited former India cricketer Robin Uthappa, under whom he had played for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the 2021 and 2022 IPL seasons.
Jagadeesan said:
"We have known each other since our CSK days. A couple of years ago, after not being picked in the IPL, I felt I needed a mentor, and we got in touch. He has helped me a lot. He has given me a sense of security about how I feel as a cricketer. I have worked with him to improve my mindset in terms of goal-setting, manifesting and also technical aspects of the game, especially in T20 cricket. He has a lot of experience and has gone through ups and downs and knows how it works in international cricket."
According to him, Uthappa had a crucial role in keeping him calm during difficult times and enhancing his technique after experiencing failures in the IPL.
Jagadeesan described the selection as a "dream come true" experience and confessed that he remained in shock upon hearing the news.
The wicketkeeper-batter said:
"I was surprised when I got the call. It is the most significant step of my career and a dream come true. I have grown up thinking about this very moment. It is a great feeling not just for me but my parents and coach as well."
Jagadeesan boasts a rich first-class record, having made 3,373 runs at 47.50 in 52 games. His domestic cricket consistency has finally led to the door opening towards the Indian Test team. Now he sets up to join the team for the crucial fifth Test against England at The Oval, all set to be introduced if required.
