Indian wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel explained the meaning behind his special celebration after scoring a hundred on Day 2 of the first Test against England at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on October 3.
Dhruv Jurel shared that his gesture after reaching fifty was a tribute to his father, while the celebration on completing his century was dedicated to the Indian Army. He said he deeply respects the soldiers for their sacrifices and hard work, adding that while cricket can’t match their bravery, he will always play for India with them in his heart.
“The salute (celebration) after reaching my fifty was for my father, but for the hundred, it was something that I had in my mind for a very long time because I have been so close to the Indian Army, I’ve seen my father (Nem Chand, who served the Indian Army and participated in the 1999 Kargil War) since my childhood. What we do on the ground and what they do on the battlefield is very different and you cannot compare that. I will always have my respect and whatever I will do in the future will be for them,” stated Jurel, as quoted by India Today.
Jurel, who is playing his sixth Test, admitted that he has always been captivated by developments surrounding the Indian Army, even after all these years.
“I will like to dedicate this to them (Indian Army) for what they do. I have seen them closely how it is like and I remain very fascinated in those things. I also used to always keep asking my father. I will dedicate it to those who deserve.”
Meanwhile, India declared their innings at 448/5 after 128 overs, powered by brilliant centuries from KL Rahul, Dhruv Jurel, and Ravindra Jadeja. Jurel’s superb 210-ball knock included 15 fours and three sixes, bringing up his maiden Test hundred. Rahul struck a composed 100, while Jadeja remained unbeaten on 104 as India took a commanding 286-run lead before declaring.
In reply, the West Indies have crumbled under pressure and are struggling at 59/5, with India’s bowlers running riot under favorable conditions. The visitors now face an uphill battle to avoid an innings defeat, as India tighten their grip on the match.
