Dhruv Jurel’s back-to-back centuries give India a selection dilemma ahead of South Africa Test series

Samira Vishwas

Tezzbuzz|09-11-2025

Dhruv Jurel is a strong contender for India’s playing XI in the upcoming Test series against South Africa, following an impressive run in the unofficial Tests. The talented wicketkeeper-batter hit two consecutive centuries against South Africa A under the captaincy of Marques Ackermann at the Centre of Excellence Ground in Bengaluru.

With Rishabh Pant making his return after recovering from a foot injury sustained during the England Tests, Jurel’s consistency with the bat has been magnificent.

Ravichandran Ashwin said that Jurel should be included in India’s playing XI for the South Africa Test series.

In the Test series against the West Indies earlier this year, the 24-year-old amassed 125, 44, and an unbeaten 6.

Dhruv Jurel’s remarkable form continued in the unofficial Test against South Africa A, as he hammered an unbeaten 132 from 175 balls in the first innings, hitting 12 boundaries and four sixes. He then notched up another century in the second innings, reaching the milestone in 159 balls.

As India prepare for their opening Test against South Africa on November 14 at Eden Gardens, Jurel’s performances at No. 7 have made things difficult for the decision-makers. The young wicketkeeper-batter has consistently delivered runs under pressure, leaving the selectors with a tough choice.

Jurel has already scored 430 runs in seven Tests, including a century and a half-century, solidifying his reputation as a rising star in India’s red-ball setup.