“The thought process when we entered the [England Test] series was that we were not coming in like a new team, but trying to dominate and win the series”

Tamil Nadu batter B. Sai Sudharsan recently made his Test debut against England. The 23-year-old showed good promise in tackling challenging conditions, even if the returns were middling. Earlier this year, he had a breakthrough performance in the IPL, finishing as the top scorer with 759 runs.

In an exclusive chat with The Hindu, the left-handed batter spoke about the exciting Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, the thrilling climax at The Oval where India won by six runs on the final morning to level the series (2-2), and much more. Excerpts:
You have now played for India in all three formats. How was the feeling of making your Test debut?

To be honest, the Test (debut) feeling was completely different. Yes, the white ball (debuts) were also very prestigious. But compared to those two debut games, when I was standing for the national anthem, it felt really special. And especially playing in England, a place I like, and I have played before... growing up, everyone used to say Test cricket is the ultimate, and I finally experienced it. It gives you that unbelievable feeling, or complete fulfilment, or satisfaction once the game finishes.
 

To be honest, the Test (debut) feeling was completely different. Yes, the white ball (debuts) were also very prestigious. But compared to those two debut games, when I was standing for the national anthem, it felt really special. And especially playing in England, a place I like, and I have played before... growing up, everyone used to say Test cricket is the ultimate, and I finally experienced it. It gives you that unbelievable feeling, or complete fulfilment, or satisfaction once the game finishes.