Dhruv Jurel shot into national limelight in the summer of 2023 when he starred for IPL franchise Rajasthan Royals (RR) as a finisher. Though a wicketkeeper primarily, he barely kept for RR and excelled as an Impact Player, totalling 152 runs at a strike-rate of 172.72.
Little did anyone expect his first International match to be in Tests — despite having kept for Uttar Pradesh in 12 Ranji Trophy games — and that too after beating competition from the likes of K.S. Bharat, Ishan Kishan and K.L. Rahul.
On Sunday, the Uttar Pradesh cricketer, who debuted in Rajkot, repaid the team-management’s trust by scoring 90 fine runs (149b, 6x4, 4x6) — after having come in at 161 for five on Saturday — and showcasing some safe, clutter-free wicketkeeping.
