Dhruv Jurel has made a compelling case for his inclusion in India’s playing XI for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy, after delivering back-to-back half-centuries for India A against Australia A at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). His performance has strengthened his bid to fill the crucial number six spot for India as they prepare for the first Test in Perth.
Jurel was selected for the second match of India A’s tour, giving him an opportunity to adjust to Australian conditions. He seized this chance, demonstrating resilience and adaptability on a challenging MCG pitch, where most India A batsmen struggled against the Australian pace attack. In the first innings, Jurel scored a crucial 80, arriving at the crease with India in deep trouble at 11-4. Alongside Devdutt Padikkal and the lower order, he helped push India to a competitive total of 161. Jurel’s counter-attacking 68 in the second innings further ensured that India A set a defendable target for their bowlers.
Replacing Ishan Kishan, who kept wickets in the first match of the tour, Jurel also impressed with his skills behind the stumps, notably taking a sharp catch off Jimmy Peirson from Prasidh Krishna’s bowling. His form and versatility have sparked discussions about his potential to break into India’s main squad for the Perth Test, where the number six position remains open. KL Rahul’s recent struggles and Sarfaraz Khan’s inexperience on foreign pitches have further amplified Jurel’s chances.
This is not the first time Jurel has showcased his abilities under pressure. Earlier this year, he made his Test debut and impressed with a player-of-the-match performance against England, highlighted by a vital 90-run knock in Ranchi. Although he has primarily been viewed as Rishabh Pant’s understudy, often covering as wicketkeeper when Pant was sidelined, Jurel’s batting credentials alone may now warrant his inclusion as an outfield player if Pant takes up the gloves.
India’s selectors, led by Gautam Gambhir and skipper Rohit Sharma, now have a decision to make, as Nitish Kumar Reddy also delivered all-round contributions in this series. However, Jurel’s recent form and ability to handle Australian conditions may give him the edge in securing a spot for the series opener at Optus Stadium in Perth.
