Dhruv Jurel Shines Again With Another Century As India A Tighten Grip Over South Africa A – Dhruv Jurel continued his incredible run of form, smashing his second century in as many innings to strengthen India A’s position against South Africa A on the third day of their four-day match on Saturday. Jurel remained unbeaten on 127, guiding India A to a strong total of 382 for seven declared in their second innings, giving them a massive lead of 416 runs.
At stumps, South Africa A were 25 without loss, still needing 392 runs to chase down the target of 417. Lesego Senokwane (9) and Jordan Hermann (15) were holding fort at the crease.
Dhruv Jurel’s Remarkable Consistency
Dhruv Jurel, who was India’s wicketkeeper-batter during the home Test series against the West Indies when Rishabh Pant was sidelined with a foot injury, has made a strong case for himself yet again. Now that Pant has recovered and is expected to return for the senior team’s series against South Africa next week, Dhruv Jurel’s back-to-back hundreds have given the selectors plenty to think about.
After scoring an unbeaten 132 in the first innings, Jurel followed it up with another composed 127 not out in the second. His performance will surely force the selectors to consider how to include him in the Test eleven, whether in Kolkata or Guwahati.
Just like his previous knock, this innings was calm, precise, and error-free. Jurel’s batting was all about timing and placement. He collected runs with well-controlled cuts, drives through the covers, and neat flicks off his pads. His fifty came off 83 balls, while Harsh Dubey, who provided excellent support at the other end, reached his half-century in 76 deliveries.
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Dubey’s Crucial Partnership
The partnership between Dhruv Jurel and Dubey proved to be the turning point of the innings. The duo added 184 runs for the sixth wicket, putting India A firmly in control. South Africa A would have been kicking themselves for dropping Dubey early on when he was yet to score. His mistimed drive off left-arm spinner Kyle Simmonds was put down at slip, a mistake that cost them dearly.
Dubey made the most of the opportunity, playing a gutsy and fluent knock of 84 before falling to Tshepo Moreki, with Simmonds taking the catch. By that time, India A were well ahead in the contest.
Jurel reached his 14th first-class century with a flicked four off pacer Tiaan van Vuuren, completing yet another impressive milestone.
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Pant’s Eventful Day
Skipper Rishabh Pant also had a busy day at the crease. He made a quick 65 off 54 balls before retiring hurt after being struck three times in quick succession by pacer Moreki. Pant was first hit on the helmet attempting a reverse pull, then on his forearm, and finally on the abdomen.
Although Rishabh Pant wanted to continue, coach Hrishikesh Kanitkar called him back for precautionary checks, keeping in mind the upcoming Test series against South Africa. At that point, Rishabh Pant was on 17 off 22 balls and India’s score was 108.
After a short break, he returned to complete his half-century, playing his trademark attacking strokes, and even kept wickets later in the day, easing any fitness concerns. His dismissal towards the end of the session prompted India A’s declaration.
Early Struggles Before the Recovery
The day didn’t start smoothly for India A. South Africa A managed to remove overnight batters KL Rahul (27) and Kuldeep Yadav (16) early. Pacer Okuhle Cele (3/46) bowled a beauty to dismiss Rahul, shaping the ball just enough to hit the off stump. Kuldeep’s attempt to loft Prenelan Subrayen ended up in the hands of Temba Bavuma at mid-on.
At 116 for five, India A’s lead was only 140, and things looked tense, especially with Pant temporarily off the field. But Jurel and Dubey’s partnership turned the tide completely, taking India from a tricky position to one of total dominance.
By the end of the day, India A had not only consolidated their lead but also put South Africa A under immense pressure heading into the final day.
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