'Practiced on a cement wicket' - Dhruv Jurel considers himself privileged to be India cricketer

Indian wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel has recently labelled himself as 'lucky' and 'privileged' for being presented with opportunities to represent India in the red-ball format. He has played nine international matches (five Tests and four T20Is) for the Indian team so far, having made his debut against England during the five-match series in early 2024.

Jurel remarked that just being around seniors in the Indian team during the series has in itself been a great learning curve for him. Jurel, who is mostly the backup wicketkeeper to Rishabh Pant in the red-ball squad, also remarked that there are not many who get the wonderful opportunity of representing the country, especially in different formats.

"Staying with or around the [India] team definitely gives you confidence. I consider myself very lucky and privileged that I got the chance to play Tests for India and to be with the team. Even if you are not playing, when seniors are around, you learn so many things from them. In a country of billions, how many people get this opportunity?," stated Jurel, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.

The 24-year-old commented on his dream of playing for India becoming true and the realization that he had done it by making the people of his hometown proud. He also encouraged people from working hard to achieve their aspirations, regardless of where they come from.

"Everyone dreams of playing for India. When I got the Test cap, I realised, 'yes, this can happen'. I come from a small city, Agra. It feels really good that I could make my parents and the people there proud. Where I come from, there wasn't even a proper wicket. I practiced on a cement wicket. So, people there should feel that no matter where you come from, you can still make it, as long as you work hard with a true heart," he added.

The Agra-born is currently busy, plying his trade with India A in the home series against Australia A. Also the vice-captain of the side, the wicketkeeper-batter registered 140 off 197 which comprised 13 fours and five sixes in the only innings played by the hosts at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Stadium in Lucknow. The second Test is slated to begin on September 23 at the same venue.