Former India captain Anil Kumble believes Dhruv Jurel possesses the qualities to match MS Dhoni’s career achievements while commending Jurel’s batting and wicketkeeping skills.
Dhruv Jurel, the promising young wicketkeeper-batter, has been receiving widespread acclaim following his performance in the recent Ranchi Test, where India won by five wickets. Despite playing only his second Test match, the Jurel displayed remarkable resilience, contributing a crucial 90 runs in the first innings and an unbeaten 39 in the second, guiding India to a challenging chase of 192.
Jurel’s standout performance earned him the Player of the Match award, prompting discussions about his future in the team, especially with Rishabh Pant’s anticipated return post-injury.
When speaking on Jio Cinema, Former India captain Anil Kumble praised Jurel’s potential, likening it to the legendary MS Dhoni’s career trajectory. While acknowledging Pant’s pending comeback, Kumble emphasized Jurel’s impressive skills and temperament, indicating a bright future ahead for the budding cricketer.
“Oh yes, there’s Rishabh Pant. We don’t know of course when he comes, comes back whenever that happens. Sooner hopefully for Rishabh. But otherwise, yes, he (Jurel) certainly has all the credentials to get to where MS (Dhoni) reached in his career,” Kumble said on Jio Cinema.
“But he’s shown that he’s not just shown the temperament of his technique to defence but even when he’s attacking. Even in that first innings he was very assured he went after and then hit those big sixes when he was batting with the tail and hats off even behind the stumps. He’s been exceptional. Especially of the faster bowlers. Spinners again took a couple of really good catches and he’s only going to improve. This is only his second Test and I’m sure as he starts playing more and more he’ll only get better. And it only augers well for India. And to have him in a squad is exceptional,” he added.
Kumble also acknowledged the challenge of KS Bharat being benched mid-series but praised Jurel for seizing the opportunity. He highlighted Bharat’s limited first-class experience but noted selectors’ confidence in his abilities.
The fifth Test match between India and England, set to start on March 7 in Dharamsala, comes after the series result has already been determined by India clinching 3 wins till now.
Last Updated on February 28, 2024
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