(source : ANI) ( Photo Credit : ani)
India’s rising star wicketkeeper Dhruv Jurel notched up his first Test century on Tuesday, crediting England batter Joe Root for sharpening his batting skills during the ongoing series opener against West Indies in Ahmedabad.
Jurel, playing his sixth Test, stayed cool under pressure to reach the milestone. Last year, he missed a similar chance at 99 against England on home soil, but this time, he smashed a four off West Indies captain Roston Chase’s spin to hit 100. The 24-year-old has been part of the Indian squad for recent series but often warmed the bench due to team selections. While waiting his turn, he picked up key tips from Root, his teammate at IPL franchise Rajasthan Royals and during India’s tour of England earlier this year.
In a post-match chat, Jurel shared how Root’s straightforward advice made a big difference. “Yes, obviously, our England tour. Because he was in the Rajasthan Royals squad once, so since I know him, whenever I feel something, I go to him and ask what I can do for my batting,” Jurel said. “He gives a simple answer that whatever the situation is, how can you play, how can you tackle. He tells normal things. And he says that it is a little difficult to be consistent on this. You just go and do the same thing every day. You will get your results.”
Jurel lit up the pitch with aggressive shots in his knock, sweeping and cutting for boundaries before launching a massive six down the ground. He fell for 125, caught off debutant spinner Khary Pierre’s bowling, giving the 34-year-old his first Test wicket. Jurel’s 206-run stand with Ravindra Jadeja put India firmly in charge before he departed.
Jurel wasn’t the only Indian batter shining on day two. KL Rahul smashed his 100, while vice-captain Jadeja remained unbeaten on 104, frustrating the West Indies bowlers. Their strong performances helped India reach 448 for 5, grabbing a solid 286-run lead in the first innings. As Jurel soaked in the cheers from the crowd, it was clear his hard work and smart learning from Root are paying off in this crucial Test match.
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