India vs South Africa Test series: Rishabh Pant returns, Jurel to play as specialist batter

Young Indian cricketer, wicketkeeper-batsman Dhruv Jurel, playing for India in the second unofficial test against South Africa ‘A,’ has shown his prowess by scoring centuries both in both innings. Considering his brilliant show, it seems almost certain that his name will feature in the list of players to represent India against South Africa in the first test to begin in Kolkata on November 14. He has ballers’ attention who are planning to drop either ‘Sai Sudarshan or ‘Nitish Reddy’ to accommodate him.

Changes in Team Combination and Strategy

As per BCCI sources, there was a possibility of playing Dhruv Jurel either at position 3 or lower down. The bowling skills possessed by Nitish Kumar Reddy are not so important in Indian conditions. Thus, playing Jurel in place of Nitish Kumar Reddy will serve Indian needs. In the recently concluded Ahmedabad Test against the West Indies team, there was less bowling to Nitish Kumar Reddy. In fact, though there was increased batting participation for him in the test against India at Delhi, there was no bowling. Thus, his inclusion seems to be almost confirmed.

Jural’s Domestic And International Performance

At just 24, Jural has represented his country in seven Test matches so far, scoring 430 runs with one hundred and one fifty. He has been playing amazingly well in his recent first-class matches too. He has scored 140, 1, 56, 125, 44, 6, 132*, and 127* in his recent first-class matches. He has hit three tons along with one fifty in his last eight first-class matches. His playing skills are considered to demonstrate that he’s now ready to face international matches.

Pant & Jurel's joint selection approach

Rishabh Pant would return to the team after his injury recovery to function mainly as a wicket-keeper. But considering Jurel’s prowess with the bat, India would have the opportunity to field Jurel purely as a batsman. The Indian team would get a chance to witness a confluence of two wicket-keepers/wicket-keeper batsmen in the Test playing XI. Indian cricket has had past cricketers supporting Jurel’s inclusion in the team. But Rishabh Pant’s stature would continue to remain in the team.

Importance of the imminent Test series

It could well turn out to be a great platform for young Indian players to display their skills, especially for young talents like Dhruv Jurel. The coming match would see his team counting on his display in Kolkata. It could prove to be crucial for deciding his fate in Indian cricket. As a result, explosive opener Dhruv Jurel’s performances have almost confirmed his debut in the India-South Africa first test match. This promises to trigger a fresh wave of hope in Indian cricket supporters.