India’s batsman and wicketkeeper, Dhruv Jurel, shared the reason behind his celebration upon reaching fifty runs in the ongoing Test match against England in Ranchi, Jharkhand. He revealed that his gesture was dedicated to his father, who had served as a soldier during the Kargil war.
In the ongoing Ranchi Test, Dhruv Jurel emerged as the standout performer for India on Day 3. With India struggling at 177/7 in response to England’s 353, Jurel’s innings proved crucial. Making his debut in the Rajkot Test, he played a significant role in rescuing the team from a difficult situation.
Dhruv Jurel and Kuldeep Yadav formed a solid partnership, preventing England from making further progress on Day 2 by taking 7 wickets. Jurel played a resilient innings, standing firm at the crease and ensuring that India did not lose any more wickets by the end of the day.
Dhruv Jurel On His Salute Celebration
In the Ranchi Test, Dhruv Jurel, who scored 46 runs in Rajkot, ensured he reached his half-century. Upon achieving this feat, the keeper-batter celebrated uniquely with a salute gesture, garnering attention. Dhruv later disclosed that his father had indirectly expressed a wish for him to excel, motivating him to perform well. Dhruv said:
“My father indirectly told me yesterday ek salute to dikha de” (show me the salute once). He was a Kargil war veteran so my celebration was for him.”
Dhruv Jurel: My father indirectly told me yesterday “ek salute to dikha de” (shoe me the salute once): He was a Kargil war veteran so my celebration was for him. pic.twitter.com/givPSx0Hb4
— Sahil Malhotra (@Sahil_Malhotra1) February 25, 2024
Dhruv Jurel didn’t lose his focus even after reaching his half-century, knowing there was more to be done. Despite his youth, he remained composed and aimed to narrow the gap between India’s total and England’s. While his batting hinted at a possible century, he ultimately fell short by 10 runs, concluding with a commendable 90 off 149 balls, including 6 fours and 4 sixes.
A Salute for his father. 🫡🇮🇳
– Dhruv Jurel is making his father proud who is a Kargil war veteran.pic.twitter.com/Q4GVIJLRAE
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) February 25, 2024
Dhruv Jurel and Kuldeep Yadav teamed up for a solid 76-run partnership for the 8th wicket. Their coordination stood out during their time at the crease, contributing significantly to the team’s performance. Jurel credits their understanding to being from the same state. Despite missing a century, he prioritizes the team’s success over personal achievements.
He added: “Both me and Kuldeep come from UP, so understanding is there. Was helpful. I am not at all disappointed to miss the hundred, want the team to lift the trophy!”
After India posted a total of 307 runs, their bowlers delivered an outstanding performance, dismissing England for just 145 runs. This left India with a target of 192 runs to chase. In response, Rohit Sharma (24*) and Yashasvi Jaiswal (16*) put on a partnership of 40 runs, finishing Day 3 on a positive note.
