As the Border-Gavaskar Trophy kicks off in Perth on November 22, Team India faces crucial selection challenges, particularly with confirmed absences in the top order. Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill’s unavailability has created a void, pushing KL Rahul to likely open the innings. Meanwhile, young wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel has emerged as a strong contender for a spot in the playing XI following impressive performances for India A in Australian conditions.
Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has strongly endorsed Jurel’s inclusion in the middle order, highlighting his ability to play as a specialist batter despite Rishabh Pant being the first-choice wicketkeeper.
Shastri’s Praise for Jurel’s Composure
Speaking on the ICC Review, Shastri praised Jurel’s temperament and ability to thrive under pressure. “He can easily play as a pure batter. What stood out for me was his calm demeanor and his ability to tighten his game when the team needed it most,” Shastri said.
Jurel has already made a mark in his brief Test career, including a standout player-of-the-match performance against England in Ranchi. His recent performances for India A at the MCG were equally notable, with scores of 80 and 68 in challenging batting conditions.
A Mental Edge in Tough Situations
Shastri emphasized Jurel’s composure under pressure, comparing him favorably to others who often falter in high-stakes moments. “A lot of players get fidgety and nervous under pressure, but Jurel’s temperament is remarkable. In the series against England, he repeatedly stepped up when the team needed him most,” Shastri noted.
Jurel’s ability to handle pressure, combined with his solid technique and range of shots, makes him a valuable asset. Shastri believes the youngster is ready for a bigger role, stating, “He has the game to succeed at number six, and his confidence after scoring 80 and 60 in tough conditions will only boost his performance. He’s not just a defensive player—he can bat with the tail and play his shots effectively.”
A Key Role in the Middle Order
If selected, Jurel is expected to bat at number six, fitting in between Rishabh Pant and a spin-bowling all-rounder. While the Border-Gavaskar Trophy presents a different level of challenge, Shastri is confident Jurel can rise to the occasion.
India will begin their campaign to defend the Border-Gavaskar Trophy for the fifth consecutive time, with high expectations from both seasoned players and emerging talents like Jurel.
