‘No competition with Rishabh Pant’ - Dhruv Jurel on wicketkeeper-batter's role in Indian team

Indian youngster Dhruv Jurel has stated that there is no sense of competition between him and senior wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant, emphasising that their primary focus is contributing to India’s success in Tests. Jurel made headlines with his impressive performances in India’s 2-0 Test series win over the West Indies last month, including scoring a maiden Test century in Ahmedabad.

With Pant returning for the upcoming series against South Africa after recovering from a right-foot fracture, the Indian team is exploring the possibility of accommodating both keepers in the same playing XI. Jurel’s star has continued to rise since making his Test debut against England in February 2024.

"There is no competition between me and Rishabh bhai. Both of us are playing for India, and whoever plays, the motive is the same: to make India win. If he plays, I will be happy. If I play, I am happy. If we play together, even better. The only focus is the team. It was a surreal moment for me to make my debut for India. Playing Test cricket was my childhood dream. Getting that first cap felt like I was on cloud seven. It was very special," Jurel said via JioHotstar.

Furthermore, the Agra-born spoke about the challenge of facing reigning World Test Championship winners South Africa when the series begins on November 14 in Kolkata. He also outlined his approach and mindset heading into the contest. The stumper-batter feels pumped up and confident of coming good against the Proteas.

"It's going to be a very exciting battle. Both teams have strong fast-bowling attacks. Whether it's Rabada and Marco Jansen from their side, or Bumrah bhai from ours, there's quality all around. At the end of the day, if you want to win a match, you have to step up against good teams. South Africa are World Test Champions, so it's going to be a good challenge. I'm looking forward to it,” said Jurel.

"I am very confident that I'll be able to contribute to the team. As a cricketer, the best feeling is when you come back to your room after the match and feel like you've done something for your team and that helped the team win. Every time I go in to bat, I look at the situation and think about what the team needs from me at that moment, and I try to play accordingly,” he added.

Meanwhile, assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate has confirmed that Jurel will be in the Playing XI for the series opener despite being the backup to vice-captain and mainstay keeper-batter Rishabh Pant. However, with Sai Sudharsan slated to bat at No. 3, it will be interesting to see where Shubman Gill asks Jurel to bat in the line-up for the game starting Friday.