Ashwin Endorses Jurel’s Inclusion
Ravichandran Ashwin, a prominent spinner for India, has expressed strong support for wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel, suggesting he deserves a spot in the upcoming first Test against South Africa. Jurel’s recent performance, highlighted by consecutive centuries against South Africa A during the second unofficial Test in Bengaluru, has made a compelling argument for his selection.
Team India’s Selection Challenge
Jurel’s remarkable form has created a challenging decision for the Indian team management as they prepare for the South Africa series, which kicks off on November 14 at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. The return of Rishabh Pant from injury adds further complexity to the selection process, intensifying competition for a place in the playing XI.
Jurel’s Outstanding Performance Against South Africa A
In the second unofficial Test against South Africa A, Jurel showcased his skills by scoring an unbeaten 132 runs off 175 balls in the first innings, hitting 12 fours and four sixes. He followed this with another century in the second innings, reaching the milestone in just 159 balls.
Jurel’s Consistent Red-Ball Performance
Earlier this year, during the Test series against the West Indies, Jurel impressed with a total of 175 runs across three innings, including a century, averaging 87.50. He ranked as the fourth-highest run-scorer in that series and was the only lower-order batter to make it into the top five.
Since participating in the Australia A tour of India in September, Jurel has accumulated 1,059 runs in nine matches, boasting an impressive average of over 81, which includes four centuries and six fifties in red-ball cricket.
Overall, Jurel has scored 430 runs in seven Tests, featuring one century and one fifty, with an average of 47.77.
