Dhruv Jurel's standout performances in the recent Test series between India and England have garnered major attention, so much so that comparisons to legendary wicketkeeper-batter MS Dhoni have begun to surface.
However, former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly, while acknowledging Jurel's talent and potential, has urged caution against prematurely likening him to Dhoni.
Jurel's remarkable display in the Test arena, particularly under pressure and on challenging pitches, has garnered widespread acclaim. His pivotal contributions in both innings of the Ranchi Test, rescuing India from precarious situations, have highlighted his mettle as a cricketer with a promising future.
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Sunil Gavaskar likens Dhruv Jurel to MS Dhoni, Sourav Ganguly wants against comparisons
Sunil Gavaskar, among others, was quick to draw parallels between Jurel's demeanor and Dhoni's, citing similarities in their calmness under pressure and game awareness.
“Of course he has batted well, but his keeping, his work behind the stumps has been equally brilliant,” Gavaskar said while on commentary.
“Just by looking at his game awareness, I want to say that he is another MS Dhoni in the making. I know there can never be another MSD but you know the presence of mind that he has, MSD also when he started, it was that. And Jurel has that game awareness. Street-smart cricketer,” Gavaskar concluded.
While appreciating Jurel's abilities, Ganguly emphasized the need for patience in nurturing young talent.
Dhruv Jurel said, “I only have one dream and that is to meet MS Dhoni. I met him during the IPL, but now want to meet him in India jersey. There's always a special learning from Mahi bhai, I hope I meet him in Ranchi” [BCCI] ❤️pic.twitter.com/DPzUz1GmwZ
— MN 👾 (@CaptainnRogerrs) February 21, 2024
“Dhruv Jurel… what a Test match he had under pressure on a difficult wicket. There is huge talent, and if you miss you and you go back down in the ladder, it will be very hard to come back. MS Dhoni is in a different league. Jurel has talent; there's no doubt about it. But it took MS Dhoni 20 years to be MS Dhoni. Rather 15 years for Dhoni to be Dhoni. So let him [Jurel] play,” Ganguly remarked.
Ganguly's words speak volumes about Dhoni's legendary career and the need to exercise caution when comparing young players to legends.
He stressed the importance of allowing Jurel the time and space to develop his game without burdening him with undue comparisons.
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Jurel's adeptness in handling spin and pace, coupled with his ability to thrive under pressure, present promising signs for Indian cricket's future. However, Ganguly's cautious approach serves as a reminder of the patience required in nurturing budding talents like Jurel.
As Jurel continues to make strides, there is also the question of where he stands in India’s wicketkeeping conundrum. He is among India’s centrally contracted players now, but when Rishabh Pant returns after his recovery, will Jurel retain his place over Pant?
Ganguly’s shrewd assessment encourages a measured approach to the early highs of his career, especially when he needs more than just performances to get a consistent run in the Test side.
