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Dhruv Jurel's form puts Sai Sudharsan's No.3 spot in danger: Who should India back for 1st Test vs South Africa?
Dhruv Jurel's outstanding form might replace Sai Sudharsan. Jurel's impressive average and temperament make him a strong contender for first Test.
Team India is gearing up for the home Test series against South Africa, with the first of the two matches set to begin at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata on Friday. While the Indian lineup appears largely settled, the management could face a selection dilemma thanks to Dhruv Jurel’s exceptional form in red-ball cricket. The young wicketkeeper-batter has impressed with his composure, sound technique, and maturity beyond his years.
There is speculation that Nitish Reddy might lose his place in the playing XI. However, with B Sai Sudharsan yet to cement his spot at number three, the Indian management could consider giving Dhruv Jurel a chance in that position. This raises an interesting question ahead of the first Test. Who should ideally bat at number three: Jurel or Sudharsan?
Case for Dhruv Jurel at number three
Dhruv Jurel averages around 48 in Test cricket and has displayed his grit and composure on a couple of occasions. In the last series against the West Indies, he also brought up his maiden Test century. Jurel's red-ball form has been outrageous. In the last five first-class games, he has scored three centuries, pushing his average in the format to around 58.
Technically, he is compact, plays late, and has already shown that he can absorb pressure when the team needs it. This temperament is exactly what a team wants early against a team like South Africa. Based on that, Jurel looks like a good choice to find his way into the playing XI for the Eden Gardens Test.
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Case for Sai Sudharsan at number three
For the last couple of series, India are trying to groom B Sai Sudharsan at number three in Tests. His career stats so far show promise, but the left-hander is yet to fully establish himself at the number three spot. Coaches and analysts have pointed out technical flaws in his batting, particularly his vulnerability to deliveries targeting the leg-stump line and the short ball. However, India’s batting coach Sitanshu Kotak has publicly stated that the youngster is aware of these issues and is working hard to address them, a clear sign of the team management’s faith in him.
Who should bat at three in Eden?
For the Eden Gardens game, Jurel makes a strong case for himself at number three. Yes, it's a promotion from the middle-order, but the modern number 3 is your crisis manager and tempo-setter, and Jurel's current form is a masterclass in both. He has repeatedly walked in on testing conditions and displayed great temperament and composure. Jurel's attitude makes him a perfect fit for the number three slot and a definite option for the Indian management to explore during the first Test against South Africa in Kolkata.
