Dhruv Jurel Shines with Bat and Gloves, Earns Plaudits in Dream Start to Test Career
Dhruv Jurel, India’s new wicketkeeper-batsman, has enjoyed a dream start to his international career, claiming a Player of the Match award in only his second Test and earning plaudits from both pundits and his England counterpart.
Jurel, 23, stepped into the role vacated by Rishabh Pant’s tragic car accident in December 2022. After stopgap solutions in KL Rahul and Srikar Bharat, Jurel impressed on debut in Rajkot, taking three sixes in his 46-run knock and showcasing his agile keeping, most notably with a sensational run-out involving Mohammed Siraj’s throw.
His maturity shone further in Ranchi, where he steered India from 177-7 to 307 with a brilliant 90, guiding the tail and pacing his innings expertly. He continued to impress in the chase, combining with Shubman Gill for a defensive masterclass that secured a 3-1 series lead for India.
Likes of Tendulkar, Bishop and Moody have Praised Dhruv Jurel
A quick learner and hard-working man behind the wickets, Jurel was also hailed as India’s next MS Dhoni former Indian great Sunil Gavaskar. In the IPL, everyone saw how perfectly Jurel can finish matches. Test cricket is a difficult challenge but he has adopted to the key role magnificently.
Jurel’s exceptional performances have drawn praise from cricket legends. Tom Moody labeled him as “Dhruv Jurel is some player, India have found a gem.”
While Sachin Tendulkar lauded his footwork, Ian Bishop highlighted his emergence as a positive sign for Test cricket:
“Around the cricketing landscape we are witnessing some really talented young players popping up. Future of the game is in good hands.”
Even rival captain Ben Stokes couldn’t help but tip his hat to Jurel. “He’s played very well in both innings,” Stokes acknowledged, adding jokingly, “His keeping was something to watch — I think Ben Foakes has a little man crush on him there,” referring to the England wicketkeeper.
Jurel’s dream debut series has cemented his position as India’s new hope behind the stumps and with the bat, leaving fans excited about his potential to become a long-term star.
