By Ayanjit Sen in Delhi

Approximately 200 miles north-west of India's capital Delhi in the north Indian state of Punjab lies the ancestral home of the England cricket team's newest recruit.

Panesar could become the first Sikh to play for England

Mudhsuden Singh Panesar, known as Monty, was born and grew up in Luton.

But his paternal grandparents still live in the industrial city of Ludhiana, which is also known as the Manchester of the East.

One of three debutants appearing in the first Test in Nagpur this week, Panesar is also the first Sikh to play for England.

Hari Singh was excited and proud of his grandson's selection to the touring party.

"He is coming to play in India and we are feeling proud," he said, looking at his grandson's photograph.

His grandmother, Manjit Kaur, admitted cricket does not usually interest them much.

"It is only after Monty's achievements that we have taken interest in the game," she said.

"Monty's father was also interested in the game and played during his university days in India."

However, Panesar's grandparents have never been to a cricket ground to see their grandson play.

"I have seen him in television a few times during my stay in England last year," said Hari Singh.

It does not matter to us whether he is playing for England or any other country Grandfather Hari Singh

"But this time, we intend to go and watch the [second] Test match at Mohali."

He remembers Monty as a boy who cherished dreams of becoming a pilot but feels cricket came to him naturally.

"He is a very hardworking guy who started off by hitting rubber balls on the walls.

"Later, when we went to England, we hardly used to meet him. He used to start of his day very early in the morning going for his practice sessions."

Now Panesar has his sights set on making his debut in the country of his ancestors.

On his arrival in Mumbai (Bombay) with the squad a fortnight ago, Panesar spoke to his grandparents and sought their blessings for his matches against India.

But it makes little difference to them which country he plays for.

"He should play well and make a name for himself," says the proud grandfather.

"It does not matter to us whether he is playing for England or any other country."