Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar heaped praise on wicketkeeper Dhruv Jurel following his resilient innings of 90 runs in the first innings of the 4th Test against England in Ranchi. Starting the day at 30 runs, Jurel added another impressive 60 runs in the morning session of day 3, coming close to achieving his maiden Test century. However, he was dismissed by Tom Hartley before reaching the milestone.
Gavaskar commended Jurel’s composure and compared him to the legendary Indian captain and wicketkeeper MS Dhoni. He expressed confidence that if Jurel maintains his current form, he will achieve many centuries in the future.
“Watching the presence of mind of Dhruv Jurel makes me think he’s the next MS Dhoni in the making,” Gavaskar said while speaking on Sports 18 during commentary.
THANK YOU, DHRUV JUREL!! 👏🇮🇳
– Son of a Kargil war veteran.
– Travelled to Noida from Agra alone for an academy at the age of 13.
– Mother sold her jewellery to buy a kit for Dhruv.
– Scored 90 in his 2nd Test when India were trailing by 176 with just 3 wickets left. pic.twitter.com/U0eizmPKHd— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) February 25, 2024
Jurel’s innings came to an end just before the lunch break when he was bowled by Tom Hartley, who took 3 wickets for 68 runs. His innings comprised 90 runs off 149 balls, including six fours and four sixes, concluding India’s first innings in 103.2 overs.
“Today he missed out on a century but make no mistake this young man will go on to score many centuries because of his presence of mind,” Gavaskar added.
Partnering with Kuldeep Yadav, Jurel thwarted England’s efforts for the majority of the morning session on day 3, building a crucial partnership of 76 runs for the eighth wicket. This partnership helped stabilize India’s innings after the team suffered setbacks on the second day.
Kuldeep Yadav fell victim to James Anderson’s bowling with the second new ball, dismissed for 28 runs off 131 balls, which included two fours. Despite the loss, Kuldeep’s contribution was significant once again.
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