Dhruv Jurel sends powerful reminder of his talent with stupendous century ahead of Ind-WI Home Test series

India’s rising wicketkeeper-batsman Dhruv Jurel sent out a powerful reminder of his talent with a counterattacking hundred against Australia A in the first unofficial Test at Lucknow’s Ekana Stadium. His unbeaten 113, supported by Devdutt Padikkal’s patient 86*, powered an unbroken 181-run partnership that guided India A to 403/4 at stumps on Day 3, still trailing by 129 runs.

Rain Delays and Early Setbacks

For the third consecutive day, rain delayed play, with only 30 minutes possible in the morning session. India A lost opener N Jagadeesan for 64, edging behind off Xavier Bartlett. B Sai Sudharsan added stability with a fluent 73, including 10 boundaries, before falling lbw to left-arm spinner Cooper Connolly.

Iyer’s Struggles Continue

Skipper Shreyas Iyer, eager to reclaim his Test spot after losing it in 2024, endured another failure. He made just 8 before being dismissed by off-spinner Corey Rocchiccioli, further extending his lean patch in red-ball cricket.

Jurel’s Counterpunch

With India A under pressure, Jurel shifted momentum. Displaying fearless intent, he hammered 10 fours and four sixes during his 114-ball century. Off-spinner Rocchiccioli bore the brunt, conceding 47 runs off 46 deliveries to Jurel, while Connolly also came under attack. At the other end, Padikkal held firm, bringing up his fifty off 117 balls.

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Selection Question Ahead of WI Series

With India still trailing but fighting hard, Jurel’s innings has done more than steady the ship. With Rishabh Pant recovering from a fractured toe suffered against England, Jurel’s timely ton has sparked debate, could he be India’s choice behind the stumps for the upcoming home Test series against West Indies in October?

Brief Scores: Australia A 532/6 dec vs India A 403/4 (Jurel 113*, Padikkal 86*, Sudharsan 73, Jagadeesan 64).