Ganguly Advocates for Dhruv Jurel's Inclusion as Batter Against South Africa

Post by : Mara Rahim

Former Indian cricket captain Sourav Ganguly has articulated his belief that young wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel deserves a spot in India’s Test lineup against South Africa, primarily as a batter rather than a wicketkeeper. With the inaugural Test set to unfold at Eden Gardens, Ganguly emphasizes Jurel’s impressive recent performances, despite the anticipated return of first-choice wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant.

Rishabh Pant, who has been sidelined for several months due to a foot injury, is poised for a comeback in the series. Ganguly acknowledged that Pant’s return complicates team dynamics, given that most batting slots are taken. “He’s performing well, isn’t he? Rishabh is back and I’m unsure about the selectors’ thoughts,” Ganguly noted, addressing the challenges in accommodating Jurel in the existing squad.

He suggested an alternative approach, urging selectors to experiment with Jurel positioned at No. 3. “Essentially, the positions are filled—two openers, Shubman Gill at 4, Pant at 5, along with KL Rahul and Jadeja. The players have shown form, making it hard to create an opportunity for Dhruv Jurel at this point,” he remarked. The decision may rest on a choice between Sai Sudharsan or Jurel for the critical No. 3 position.

The 23-year-old Dhruv Jurel is currently on a high in domestic cricket, having scored centuries in both innings of a recent unofficial Test series against South Africa ‘A’, steering India ‘A’ to a dominant win in Bengaluru. His remarkable batting form has drawn the attention of both selectors and cricketing legends like Ganguly, who referred to him as “in-form” and ready for greater challenges.

Ganguly also expressed unwavering confidence in India’s capacity to thrive at home. He stated that the synergy of India’s spinning attack alongside their formidable batting order makes them the favorites. “India’s spin department is exceptional. This youthful team performed admirably in England three months back,” he praised players like Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Pant, Mohammad Siraj, Akash Deep, and Jadeja for their consistent performances.

Despite South Africa's recent successes in Pakistan, Ganguly believes that challenging India on home soil will be significantly more daunting. “Facing India in India is a different ball game,” he commented. “They'll need to execute exceptionally well to match us.” His remarks underscore India’s historical strength at home, where they have seldom lost a Test series over the past decade.

The first Test between India and South Africa is scheduled to commence on November 14 and will conclude on November 18. The second Test will follow in Guwahati from November 22 to 26.

Both teams will subsequently shift gears to the ODI series starting on November 30 in Ranchi, followed by matches in Raipur (December 3) and Visakhapatnam (December 6).

The T20I series kicks off on December 9 in Cuttack, with additional matches in New Chandigarh (December 11), Dharamsala (December 14), Lucknow (December 17), and Ahmedabad (December 19) wrapping up the tour.

Ganguly wrapped up his comments by commending the current Indian team for its depth and diversity. “This squad is bursting with talent,” he said, highlighting the blend of youth and experience that solidifies India’s standing across all formats. He expressed optimism that selectors will devise a way to integrate Jurel, whose relentless pursuit of runs and confidence could inject renewed vigor into India’s batting lineup.