Dhruv Jurel’s purple patch ignites debate over India’s Test XI against England

Wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel has emerged as one of the most talked-about performers in the India A setup, currently engaged in a warm-up fixture against the England Lions in Northampton. With a string of consistent scores, Jurel is not only turning heads but also putting significant pressure on selectors ahead of India’s upcoming Test series.

Jurel, who struck 94 and an unbeaten 53 in the first unofficial Test at Canterbury, followed it up with a resilient 52 off 87 balls in the ongoing match. These innings, marked by composure, precise timing, and remarkable maturity, have added weight to the growing chorus advocating for his inclusion in India’s Test squad.

Three fifties on the trot for Dhruv Jurel 👏🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/Jml6LChMx9

— Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) June 6, 2025

His current form, three successive fifties in practice games, has deepened the selection dilemma for the team management. While Jurel`s performances have underlined his readiness for the international stage, his integration into the playing XI is not straightforward due to the existing team balance.

India’s likely batting lineup for the Test series features Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul as openers, Karun Nair and skipper Shubman Gill in the middle order, and Rishabh Pant as the first-choice wicketkeeper. All-rounders Ravindra Jadeja and Nitish Kumar Reddy round off the middle-lower order. Slotting Jurel into this setup could mean sacrificing an all-rounder or a frontline bowler, an impractical move in English conditions, where depth in bowling is often crucial to success.

Moreover, Pant remains the incumbent behind the stumps and is also vice-captain, which further complicates Jurel’s immediate prospects. While Pant’s aggressive style often divides opinion, his Test average of over 42 and strike rate of 73 reflect his impact, particularly in overseas conditions.

Nonetheless, Jurel’s domestic and A-team records make a compelling case. The 23-year-old has now featured in 24 First-Class matches, scoring 1,434 runs at an average close to 50, including 12 fifties and a century. According to ESPNcricinfo, in six First-Class matches for India A, he has amassed 418 runs at a stellar average of 55.36, with six fifties to his name. In addition, Jurel has already played four Tests for India, scoring 202 runs at an average of 40.40, which includes a vital half-century.

This article first appeared on Mid Day