Former India off-spinner R Ashwin has applauded wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel. He was doing well in the opening Test against the West Indies in Ahmedabad, where he scored his maiden hundred, making 125 off 210 balls. India won the match by an innings and 140 runs.
Ahead of the second Test, Ashwin spoke highly of Dhruv Jurel.

Speaking in a video on his YouTube channel, Ashwin said:  “I have no doubt about Dhruv Jurel’s class, because against England, the way he played in Ranchi, those innings alone showed that Dhruv should be playing the next 10 Test matches. But because Rishabh Pant is there, he is able to keep Dhruv Jurel out of the side. So, Dhruv Jurel’s class and pedigree, again, no doubt. Dhruv Jurel as the second wicketkeeper for India is also a lock. I think, when we reach a certain stage, Dhruv Jurel will play as a batter for the Indian team as well. His pedigree is that strong.”

However, R Ashwin also mentioned that Axar Patel is likely to get a chance in the playing XI during the two-match Test series against South Africa as well.

“But Axar Patel will play. When South Africa comes, I think there will be a slightly stiffer test. They are WTC champions. They are the holding champions. I think they will pose much higher competition. Still, there are not many spin options with South Africa. In India, if you want to win, you need batting that can play long, and you need spin bowling to stay tight as well. South Africa looks a little short on spin resources. We don’t know how they will bat either. But India is spoiled for choices. There are a lot of all-rounders. If you play Washi, Axar, and Jadeja, you will play Kuldeep as well. Batting will go up to number 10. I think Bumrah will get a rest against South Africa,” R Ashwin concluded.