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Dhruv Jurel Scores Unbeaten 115 Against Sri Lanka as Mohammad Kaif Praises Technique

Indian batter Dhruv Jurel produced a composed, unbeaten 115 on Day 2 of the second Test against Sri Lanka at the Sinhalese Sports Club in Colombo, guiding India to a strong first-innings total. Following the knock, former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif commended Jurel as an organised batter with exceptional command against both spin and fast bowling.

What Happened

Resuming the second day on an overnight score of seven, Jurel initially played a supportive role alongside Rishabh Pant. The duo constructed a vital 112-run partnership for the seventh wicket after India had slipped to 307/6. Their stand helped India recover and eventually declare their first innings at 503/9.

Jurel completed his half-century off 97 deliveries and reached his second Test hundred in 171 balls. He finished on 115 not out from 177 deliveries, striking nine boundaries and two sixes, both coming off bowler Fernando—one lofted over long-off and a hook over square leg. This innings marked Jurel’s first Test century outside India, following his maiden ton of 125 against the West Indies in Ahmedabad.

Key Highlights

  • Jurel remained unbeaten on 115 off 177 deliveries, hitting nine fours and two sixes.
  • He shared a 112-run seventh-wicket stand with Rishabh Pant to rescue India from 307/6 to an eventual declaration at 503/9.
  • The innings registered as Jurel’s second Test hundred and his first outside India.
  • Former batter Mohammad Kaif highlighted Jurel’s middle-of-the-bat control, noting that he was not beaten on the outside edge throughout the knock.
  • The performance followed a rapid 51 off 68 balls in the opening Test at Galle.

Why This Matters

Speaking on Sony Sports, Mohammad Kaif stressed the significance of Jurel’s technique against spin, pointing out that the national side has sought players capable of handling quality turn. Kaif noted that Jurel adapted effectively by playing off the back foot, using his feet, and deploying the reverse sweep, while simultaneously withstanding early pressure against the new ball.

What to Watch Next

Following India’s declaration at 503/9 on the second day in Colombo, Sri Lanka will proceed with their first innings in the ongoing second Test.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was Dhruv Jurel’s final score in the first innings?

Dhruv Jurel finished unbeaten on 115 runs off 177 balls, including nine fours and two sixes.

How many Test centuries has Dhruv Jurel scored?

Jurel has scored two Test centuries: his first was 125 against the West Indies in Ahmedabad, and his second was an unbeaten 115 against Sri Lanka in Colombo.

What did Mohammad Kaif say about Jurel’s batting?

Mohammad Kaif noted that Jurel demonstrated excellent organisation at the crease, consistently finding the middle of the bat without edging, while effectively countering spin bowling through footwork, back-foot strokes, and reverse sweeps.

Source: Based on reporting from CricTracker.