Standout performances, including a 13-wicket match in the Irani Trophy led him to be called into the Indian team in 1997. Three years later, an injury to Anil Kumble enabled him to be called up for a Test match against Australia, but he struggled in his two Tests.
Sairaj has played in England for the last 5 summers for Surrey Championship side Reigate Priory in the Premier Division. In 2005 they won the title, with a valuable contribution with bat and ball from Sairaj.