Dhruv Jurel’s impressive performance in the second unofficial Test against Australia ‘A’ has put him in contention for a spot in India’s playing XI for the first Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) in Perth.
Jurel, who made his Test debut against England earlier this year, has shown his mettle with a fighting knock of 80 off 186 balls against Australia ‘A’. With Rishabh Pant firmly established as India’s first-choice wicketkeeper, Jurel’s chances of playing as a wicketkeeper are slim. However, his batting prowess could earn him a spot as a specialist batsman.
With captain Rohit Sharma likely to miss the first Test due to injury, KL Rahul is expected to partner Yashasvi Jaiswal as an opener. Abhimanyu Easwaran, who has also been in contention for the opening spot, has failed to impress against Australia ‘A’.
This leaves the middle order as a potential opening for Jurel. Sarfaraz Khan, who has been in and out of the Test team, has not been in the best of form lately. His brittle temperament could also be a concern against the aggressive Australian bowlers.
Jurel, on the other hand, has shown his ability to handle pressure and play long innings. His 90 in the Rajkot Test against England is a testament to his batting skills.
If coach Gautam Gambhir decides to include Jurel in the playing XI, he could replace Sarfaraz Khan in the middle order. Jurel’s experience at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, where the first Test will be played, could also be a factor in his favor.
