Dhruv Jurel registers the highest score by Indian debutant wicketkeeper in 90 years in Test cricket

Young Indian wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel made history in his debut international match during the ongoing third Test against England. During India’s first innings, Dhruv Jurel achieved the highest score by an Indian wicketkeeper batter on Test debut in 90 years.

Jurel replaced Srikar Bharat as wicketkeeper-batsman in India’s playing XI for the third Test at the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Rajkot. Bharat was omitted from the team following his unimpressive performances with the bat despite good glove work.

Dhruv Jurel Misses Half Century On His Test Debut In Rajkot

Dhruv Jurel entered the crease at No. 8 following Kuldeep Yadav’s early dismissal on Day 2. The 23-year-old batter showcased composure and skill in his debut international appearance. He added a crucial partnership with Ravichandran Ashwin for the eighth wicket.

Despite benefiting from a couple of dropped catches, Jurel displayed confidence and control throughout his innings. While nearing his first fifty, the young batter was unfortunately dismissed for 46 runs off 104 deliveries, which included two fours and three sixes.

Dhruv Jurel forged a 77-run partnership with Ravichandran Ashwin for the eighth wicket. Following Jurel’s dismissal, Jasprit Bumrah (28) and Mohammed Siraj (3) added crucial 30 runs. The Indian cricket team was eventually bowled out for 445 runs in the first innings.

Dhruv Jurel Fails To Break Massive Milestone In Test Cricket

Dilawar Hussain remains the sole Indian wicketkeeper to achieve a half-century on Test debut, accomplishing this feat in 1934 against England in Kolkata. He smashed a fifty in both innings, making him the first Indian to achieve such a milestone in Test cricket.

Highest Score By Indian Wicketkeeper On Test Debut

Dilawar Hussain – 59 vs England in January 1934

Dilawar Hussain – 67 vs England in January 1934

Dhruv Jurel – 46 vs England in February 2024

In a video shared by the BCCI, Dinesh Karthik presented the cap to Jurel before the match began. Karthik highlighted Jurel’s decision to move to Noida from Agra to pursue cricket, emphasizing the support he received from his mother throughout his journey.

Very Pure And Divine About Representing India In Test Cricket – Dinesh Karthik

“It’s a very special occasion. Coming from Agra and moving to Noida at a very young age, your mother being there with you, and all the tough things that must have happened in the journey. There must have been so many people through the journey that must have helped you and I am sure all of them are going to be watching today,” Karthik said.

“You must have played a lot of matches in different colors, mainly blue, but there is something very pure and divine about representing India in Test cricket,” he added.

Jurel faces the challenge of proving his proficiency behind the stumps to secure his role as the primary wicketkeeper. The Uttar Pradesh-born cricketer has limited exposure to a first-class career, having played just 15 red-ball matches before his Test debut.

Also read: Watch: Dhruv Jurel plays a stupendous upper-cut off Mark Wood’s 146 kmph thunderbolt