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"No competition between Pant bhai and...": Dhruv Jurel speaks up ahead of IND vs SA Tests

Rajgeeta Yadav

Rishabh Pant and Dhruv Jurel [Source: AFP]Rishabh Pant and Dhruv Jurel [Source: AFP]

Young India wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel has made it clear that there is no rivalry between him and senior player Rishabh Pant as India prepares to face South Africa in the upcoming Test series. Jurel said both players are focused only on one thing, helping India win.

Jurel, who impressed in India’s 2-0 Test win against the West Indies last month, scored his first Test hundred in Ahmedabad. His solid performance earned him praise and a place in the team for the South Africa series. 

Meanwhile, Rishabh Pant is making his comeback after recovering from a foot injury, which has led to discussions about how both wicketkeepers might fit into the same playing XI.

Dhruv Jurel expects good competition between IND and SA

Speaking on JioStar’s Follow The Blues, Jurel said he expects a tough but exciting contest between the two teams. 

"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," he said. 

When asked about competing with Pant, Jurel said, 

"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 am happy. If I play, I am happy. If we play together, even better. The only focus is the team."

Talking about his Test debut, Jurel described it as a dream come true.

"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,"  he said.

Meanwhile, in the latest update, India’s assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate confirmed that Dhruv Jurel will keep his spot in the playing XI for the first Test against South Africa, which begins Friday, November 14, in Kolkata. 

Rishabh Pant will also return, likely replacing Nitish Kumar Reddy, who featured in both Tests against the West Indies but had limited chances to perform.