Dhruv Jurel struck a hundred and took over wicketkeeping duties for an injured Rishabh Pant on day two of the second Test against Sri Lanka.
Dhruv Jurel celebrated his century on day two of the second Test match between India and Sri Lanka in Colombo on August 24, 2026. Battling alongside Mohammed Siraj, Jurel spent 13 deliveries on 99 and survived a run-out attempt before completing his hundred, a knock that deflated the host team.
Recalling the nervous phase on 99 against Sri Lankan fast bowler Asitha Fernando, Jurel explained how Fernando made things difficult. "So actually, when I was on 99, before that I was getting runs, and on 99, he (Asitha Fernando) started bowling good lengths. When I played that shot (for the hundred), thought it was going past the fielder, that there was a gap, and then I was like oh God!" Jurel said. He also praised Fernando for challenging him with short balls under hot conditions.
Despite rain interrupting play throughout the day, Jurel remained comfortable owing to his prior experience playing with India A in similar conditions. "I am used to it because I was here with India A and am aware of the situation, about the (rain) breaks. I was just trying to bat in partnerships and also assess the conditions," he noted, adding, "Even if I scored a 100 today, tomorrow I will go and start from zero, that’s how it is."
When Sri Lanka began their first innings, Jurel took over behind the stumps as regular wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant was sidelined. Clarifying the move, Jurel said, "Right now, (Rishabh) Pant has a sore right shoulder. We are closely monitoring him. Today I kept wickets, hopefully he will be fit."
Emphasizing his commitment to the longest format of the game, Jurel added, "Playing Test cricket is a privilege. We want to play well both in white and in blue."
Reporting sourced from The Hindu Sport. Photo courtesy The Hindu Sport.