Jaipur: Rising Indian cricketer Manav Suthar’s journey from playing street cricket to earning his maiden call-up to the Indian Test squad is a story of persistence, resilience, and unwavering belief. The 23-year-old left-arm spin-bowling all-rounder from Rajasthan has finally realised his long-cherished dream after years of hard work in domestic cricket and India A tours.
Suthar, who has been selected for the one-off Test against Afghanistan, reflected on his humble beginnings and the challenges he overcame to reach the international stage. His journey is particularly inspiring given the odds he faced in a cricket-obsessed country like India, where competition is fierce and opportunities are limited.
Early beginnings in street cricket
Like many young cricketers in India, Suthar’s introduction to the sport began in the streets. He fondly recalled how playing casual games with friends laid the foundation for his cricketing skills.
“Cricket has always been a big part of my family. My father loves the game, and everyone at home watches matches regularly. As a young boy, I used to sit with them and watch. That is where my love for cricket first started,” Suthar said.
He added that street cricket helped him understand the basics of the game. “Those street games taught me how to hold the bat and how to bowl. It was fun, but it also shaped my early learning,” he noted.
Recognising his passion, Suthar joined a cricket academy at the age of 10 or 11, where he trained under experienced coaches. This marked the beginning of a more structured approach to the sport.
Breakthrough and domestic success
Suthar’s first significant breakthrough came when he represented Rajasthan in the Under-14 category. The experience boosted his confidence and convinced him that cricket could be a viable career option.
However, the journey was not without challenges. He revealed that many people discouraged him from pursuing cricket, advising him instead to focus on academics.
“In a country like India, succeeding in cricket is never easy. There are so many talented players competing for the same spots. Many people told me that cricket had no scope and that I was wasting my time,” he said.
Despite the criticism, Suthar remained focused. His perseverance paid off as he consistently delivered strong performances in domestic cricket. Since the 2022–23 Ranji Trophy season, he has emerged as a prolific wicket-taker.
In the 2025–26 domestic season, Suthar picked up 18 wickets in just three Ranji Trophy matches, including an impressive match-winning spell of 8 for 42 against Chhattisgarh. Overall, he has claimed 129 wickets in 29 first-class matches, along with a century and six half-centuries, showcasing his all-round abilities.
India A and IPL exposure
Suthar’s consistent performances earned him regular spots in India Emerging and India A squads. These opportunities helped him gain valuable experience and prepared him for the next level.
He made his Indian Premier League debut in 2024 with Gujarat Titans, although opportunities were limited initially. After missing out in the 2025 season, he returned in 2026 and featured in four matches.
Reflecting on his journey, Suthar said, “All the hard work in domestic cricket and for India A has paid off. Making my international debut is a dream come true. I feel proud, grateful, and ready to give my best for the country.”
Emotional moment for family
The news of his selection for the Indian team brought immense joy to Suthar and his family. He described the moment as unforgettable.
“I was in my room when my sister called me and told me that my name had come up in the Indian team. I asked her if it was official, and she said yes. Everyone at home was emotional,” he shared.
Suthar added that his parents were overwhelmed with happiness. “They couldn’t believe it. You work hard for years, and when you finally get selected for India, it’s the best feeling of your life,” he said.
Cricketing idols and inspiration
Suthar credited former Indian all-rounder Yuvraj Singh as his favourite cricketer and a major source of inspiration. He also admires veteran off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin for his skill and adaptability.
“The way they played and adapted to different formats inspires me a lot. They are my role models,” he said.
He also praised Indian captain Shubman Gill for his leadership qualities, highlighting his clarity and ability to instil confidence in players.
“He reads the game well and understands situations perfectly. More importantly, he trusts his players, which makes things easier on the field,” Suthar added.
A promising future ahead
Manav Suthar’s rise from street cricket to the Indian team is a testament to his determination and hard work. His journey underscores the importance of perseverance, especially in the face of doubt and criticism.
As he prepares to don the Indian jersey, expectations will be high, but his consistent performances suggest that he has the potential to make a significant impact at the international level. For now, Suthar remains focused on making the most of this opportunity and continuing his upward trajectory in Indian cricket.
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