In a remarkable display of grit and determination, Dhruv Jurel scored his maiden half-century in Test cricket during the fourth Test match in Ranchi.
Batting under pressure when India needed stability, Jurel showcased maturity beyond his years, earning accolades from cricketing legend Sunil Gavaskar, who likened him to the iconic MS Dhoni.
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Facing a formidable England Cricket Team, Jurel's innings proved pivotal in India's quest for dominance. With just 3 fours and a solitary six, the 23-year-old crafted a patient and resilient fifty, steering India through turbulent waters.
His cautious yet assertive approach underscored his ability to thrive under pressure, a trait reminiscent of Dhoni himself. Jurel was dismissed for 90 off 149 balls as the India's first innings ended on 307. The hosts, who have a 2-1 series lead, trail England by 46 runs in the first innings of the third Test.
What did Sunil Gavaskar say?
Gavaskar, renowned for his astute observations, hailed Jurel's performance, drawing parallels between the young wicketkeeper-batsman and the legendary Dhoni.
In a commentary stint, Gavaskar said: "Of course he has batted well, but his keeping, his work behind the stumps has been equally brilliant. Just by looking at his game awareness, I want to say that he is another MS Dhoni in the making. I know there can never be another MSD but you know the presence of mind that he has, MSD also when he started, it was that. And Jurel has that game awareness. Street-smart cricketer."
Soon Gavaskar added that although there cannot be a second Dhoni, the way Jurel started his career, it is almost similar to that of Dhoni's trajectory.
Gavaskar further clears the air ahead of the fifth Test in Dharamshala
When Gavaskar was asked to further clarify his comments, the legend told Sportstak: "The way he thinks about the game, the way he assesses the situation and bats accordingly, gives me the MS Dhoni feels. He would hit a six in between and then look for ones and twos to rotate the strike... Even in keeping, the way he gathered that wayward throw and ran out Ben Duckett and then took a brilliant catch of Jimmy Anderson who went for the reverse sweep.
"When MS Dhoni was of his age, he too had the same situation awareness. And that is why I said, Jurel is like MS Dhoni. No one can become MS Dhoni. There is only one MS Dhoni. But if Jurel can manage to do even some portion of the things Dhoni did then it would be great for Indian cricket."
Gavaskar believes that Jurel will be a valuable addition to India's T20 World Cup squad as well if he shines for Rajasthan Royals in the upcoming IPL.
"He is definitely an option. A lot will depend on his IPL form. Form is very important. But the ease with which he is hitting sixes shows that he has the game for shorter formats. If he gets a chance then he will bat at No.5 or 6 only, as a finisher. We've seen how Dhoni did coming in to bat that number in the last 4-5 overs of the innings. The same will be expected from him."
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