Dhruv Jurel On Test Life: “How Many People Get This Opportunity?”

Dhruv Jurel is enjoying his time with the Test team and keeping his focus simple: help the team win and improve step by step. Fresh from a 140 for India A against Australia A in Lucknow, the wicketkeeper-batter spoke about valuing team results over personal milestones and learning every day around seniors.

Putting Team First

Jurel said his view on runs has changed with experience and exposure to Test cricket. He now looks at what helps the team most rather than chasing landmarks.

“Honestly, earlier it did matter to me whether my score was 100 or 150. But now I understand that the team’s victory is more important.”

He also pointed to near-misses in the 90s, including his 90 in the Ranchi Test against England, where he was Player of the Match and India won.

“One of them was in the Ranchi Test… the team won the match. Cricket is a team game… Now I think more about the team’s win than about my scores.”

Learning Around Seniors

Jurel feels being in and around the Test setup has lifted his confidence and cricket awareness. Even when he is not playing, he tries to absorb as much as possible.

“Staying with or around the [India] team definitely gives you confidence. I consider myself very lucky and privileged that I got the chance to play Tests for India and to be with the team… In a country of billions, how many people get this opportunity?”

Simple Process, One Match At A Time

He keeps his planning short and clear. The aim is to focus on the next game and not get weighed down by the bigger picture.

“I take it one match at a time, and don’t think too far ahead. The more you think, the more pressure you put on yourself.”

Form Since Test Debut

Jurel’s batting numbers have improved since stepping into the Test side. Before debut, he averaged in the mid‑40s in first-class cricket with one century; since then, his average has climbed past 50 with more fifties and another hundred added. His recent 140 for India A showed control and intent, and his 228-run stand with Devdutt Padikkal steadied the innings in a high-scoring draw.

In the early part of his Test journey, he has key scores across conditions: a composed 46 on debut in Rajkot, the match-turning 90 and an unbeaten 39 in Ranchi, and useful contributions in England and Australia. Behind the stumps, his glovework has been neat, with safe hands and tidy footwork.

Journey From Agra

Jurel’s story is rooted in grit. He grew up in Agra, trained on a cement wicket, and climbed through age-group cricket, India Under‑19s, domestic cricket for Uttar Pradesh, the IPL, India A, and into India’s Test squad. He wants young players to see that background does not limit dreams.

“Where I come from, there wasn’t even a proper wicket. I practiced on a cement wicket. So people there should feel that no matter where you come from, you can still make it, as long as you work hard with a true heart.”

Role In The Coming Season

India’s home season begins next month with two Tests each against West Indies and South Africa. Rishabh Pant’s fitness will shape selections, but Jurel’s steady keeping and value with the bat make him a strong squad option. If called, he offers reliable glovework and the ability to change games with counter-attacking middle-order runs. If not, he continues to learn, prepare, and stay ready.

What Stands Out About Jurel

• Calm under pressure: Ranchi’s 90 and 39* showed strong temperament in tight games.

• Game awareness: Rotates strike, picks matchups, and shifts gears without panic.

• Keeping standards: Clean takes, sharp reflexes, and growing confidence standing up.

• Team-first mindset: Clear that results matter more than personal tallies.

The Road Ahead

Jurel wants to keep his cricket simple: train well, learn from seniors, and be ready when the chance comes. The India A runs add to his case; the Test squad time adds to his growth. Whether starting or waiting, his method remains the same—stay in the moment and do the basics right.

“Everyone dreams of playing for India… It feels really good that I could make my parents and the people there proud.”