India’s young sensation Dhruv Jurel recently shared a heartfelt caption on Instagram, which captured the sentiment of every Indian cricket fan who braves chilly winter mornings to watch the intense India-Australia Test rivalry. Jurel reflected on his journey, recalling how he once set alarms to catch every moment of these iconic matches. Now, as a member of the Indian team, the wicketkeeper-batter no longer needs an alarm to be part of the action. His post beautifully illustrated his transition from a spectator of the game to a proud member of the Indian cricket camp.
Jurel shared pictures from his pre-series photo-shoot on Instagram and captioned the post, “From setting alarms to catch India’s Tests in Australia to waking up alarm-free.” Jurel will be eager to get an opportunity in the upcoming Border Gavaskar Trophy series, starting November 22 at the Optus Stadium in Perth. Jurel did not get any opportunity in India’s recently-concluded home Test season. With Rishabh Pant returning to the Indian Test side as wicketkeeper-batter, Jurel found himself benched despite a memorable debut series vs England. However, in the 1st Test between India and New Zealand, Jurel took over the wicketkeeping duties as Pant suffered discomfort in his knee.
Jurel’s caption game on point
Barring his wicketkeeping skills, Jurel did not get the chance to flaunt his batting prowess against New Zealand and Bangladesh in the whites.
Can Jurel make it to India’s playing XI?
Jurel has already impressed with his batting in the Australian conditions during the 2nd unofficial Test between India A and Australia A. The 23-year-old showcased his skills with scores of 80 and 68 across his two innings in the four-day clash at the MCG. His assured batting under challenging conditions makes him a strong contender to find a place in India’s playing XI in 1st Test at Perth.
Jurel, who had already made three Test appearances against England earlier this year, scored 46, 90, 39 not out, and 15 in those outings, averaging 63 with the bat. His technique and poise in Melbourne, facing the Australian bowling lineup on a notoriously bouncy surface, could make the management mull over his inclusion.
With Shubman Gill ruled out of the 1st Test due to a thumb fracture and uncertainty over Rohit Sharma’s availability, this could give a chance to a player like Jurel to showcase his skills at the biggest stage.
