Ind vs SA Test series: Will in-form Dhruv Jurel be included in playing XI for Kolkata game?

Former India captain Sourav Ganguly has voiced strong confidence in Dhruv Jurel’s chances of making India’s playing XI for the upcoming Kolkata Test against South Africa, starting on November 14. The young wicketkeeper-batter has been in superb form, registering consecutive centuries — 132 and 127 — in the second unofficial Test against South Africa A, soon after scoring his maiden Test hundred versus the West Indies.

Over the past three months, Jurel has notched up four first-class centuries, further bolstering his claim for selection. His remarkable run has triggered discussions about his possible inclusion in the Test lineup. According to Ganguly, the final decision could hinge on the selectors’ choice for the No. 3 position, with both Jurel and Sai Sudharsan being the leading options.

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“He’s been in terrific touch, hasn’t he? With Rishabh back in the squad, I’m not entirely sure what the selectors have in mind. Most of the positions look settled — the two openers, Gill at No. 4, Pant at No. 5, along with KL Rahul and Jadeja. These players have all been performing consistently. So, finding a spot for Dhruv Jurel might not be straightforward. It really depends on who they want at No. 3 — whether they go with Sai Sudharsan or decide to reward Dhruv’s form. We’ll just have to wait and watch,” Ganguly said.

With stalwarts like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma now retired, India may appear less experienced on paper, but Ganguly believes the side’s balance and depth make them clear favourites. He added that South Africa would need to play outstanding cricket to match India’s intensity.

“India’s spin attack looks formidable. This young side toured England three months ago and performed brilliantly. It was a wonderful series — with standout performances from Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rahul, and Pant. They were all exceptional. Siraj, Akash Deep, and Jadeja also showed that India’s talent pool is impressive,” Ganguly noted.

“South Africa did well in Pakistan, that’s true, but facing India is a completely different test. They’ll need to deliver top-quality cricket to compete with this Indian team,” he concluded.