New Delhi: Dhruv Jurel made a compelling case for inclusion in the Indian Test team with back-to-back centuries in the second unofficial Test between India A and South Africa A. In an impressive display at the BCCI Centre of Excellence Ground 1 in Bengaluru, Jurel scored an unbeaten 132 in the first innings, followed by a 127-run performance in the second.
Batting at number seven, Jurel hit 127 off 170 balls, including 15 fours and one six. India declared at 382/7 following the dismissal of Rishabh Pant, who made a notable contribution of 65 runs despite suffering injuries during play.
While Pant’s fifty was commendable, Jurel’s excellent form drew significant attention, occurring just days before India’s two-match Test series against South Africa, set to begin on November 14.
India A’s innings total of 382 runs set a challenging target of 417 for the South African team. In response, the Proteas reached 25 runs without losing a wicket before play concluded, leaving them requiring another 392 runs to secure victory.
In the first innings, India A managed only 255 runs, with Jurel’s unbeaten 132 being the standout contribution. South Africa A, led by captain Marques Ackerman’s century, scored 221 runs, closely matching India’s total.
Jurel’s two centuries have strengthened his chances of entering the Indian Test squad. With Pant’s recent injury, Jurel may receive further consideration as a potential specialist batter.
South Africa A’s Playing XI: Jordan Hermann, Lesego Senokwane, Temba Bavuma, Zubayr Hamza, Marques Ackerman (c), Connor Esterhuizen (w), Tiaan van Vuuren, Kyle Simmonds, Prenelan Subrayen, Tshepo Moreki, Okuhle Cele.
India A’s Playing XI: KL Rahul, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Sai Sudharsan, Devdutt Padikkal, Dhruv Jurel, Rishabh Pant (w/c), Harsh Dubey, Akash Deep, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna.
