'Done enough to be considered as a batter' - Dhruv Jurel backed by India veteran for featuring in Kolkata Test

Published - 08 Nov 2025, 20:28 IST | Updated - 08 Nov 2025, 22:22 IST

Former Indian cricketer Parthiv Patel believes that India could face a slight dilemma while choosing between Nitish Kumar Reddy and Dhruv Jurel for the No. 6 spot as far as the first Test against South Africa is concerned. The series-opening clash of the all-format assignment is scheduled to commence on November 14.

Parthiv shortlisted the opening pair of Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul which he followed up with Sai Sudharsan, Shubman Gill and the returning Rishabh Pant. Barring the No. 6 spot, he named three spinners and two pacers to be in the XI.

Parthiv felt Nitish Kumar Reddy could be played due to the bowling-friendly conditions which might be on offer at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata. However, the erstwhile wicketkeeper-batter defended Jurel's performances in the past and felt that he deserved to play in the squad if the Shubman Gill-led side wants to play an extra batter instead of an all-rounder.

"Whether it was against West Indies or wherever and whichever position Jurel has gotten to bat in, he has scored runs. If your combination is that you want to play an all-rounder, then he might not get a place. However, if you want to play a pure batter, Jurel can play there, and this management has already shown that kind of confidence in him once. I feel Jurel has done enough to be considered as a batter in the Test team," he concluded.

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Jurel is currently involved in the Test series between India A and South Africa A. He has struck centuries in both innings to set up a solid chance for him getting the nod ahead of Nitish. Pant will be anticipated to be the wicketkeeper for India's upcoming series, while also being the vice-captain of the red-ball side.