In the realm of cricket, comparisons often arise between emerging talents and established legends. However, for wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel, the essence lies in carving out one’s unique identity rather than emulating others. In response to being likened to the iconic Mahendra Singh Dhoni by Sunil Gavaskar, Jurel gracefully acknowledged the compliment while affirming the irreplaceable stature of Dhoni in cricket history.
Honoring a Legend
Expressing his gratitude to Gavaskar for the comparison, Jurel humbly acknowledged Dhoni’s unparalleled legacy. “Thank you so much Gavaskar sir for comparing me with Dhoni sir. But I want to say personally that no one can replicate what Dhoni sir has done,” he stated, emphasizing the reverence he holds for the former Indian captain.
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Identity
Asserting his individuality, Jurel highlighted his aspiration to forge his path in the cricketing world. “There is only one Dhoni. Always was and always will be. For me, I just want to be Dhruv Jurel. Whatever I do, I want to do as Dhruv Jurel,” he affirmed, underscoring his commitment to leaving his mark on the sport.
Dream Fulfilled
Reflecting on his Test debut against England, Jurel expressed his elation at realizing his childhood dream. “It was a pleasure to play Tests, the purest form of cricket. I was sure that I would play Test cricket someday and it has been a dream-come-true moment for me,” he shared, cherishing the opportunity to represent India in the longest format of the game.
Revered Tradition
Dispelling notions of competition between Test cricket and the Indian Premier League (IPL), Jurel emphasized the significance of the traditional format. “Test cricket is at a different level,” he asserted, reaffirming his reverence for the timeless charm and prestige associated with Test matches.
Staying Grounded
When queried about his prospects of featuring in the T20 World Cup, Jurel adopted a pragmatic approach, focusing on the present rather than speculating about the future. “To be honest, I don’t have to think much; let’s just control the controllables,” he remarked, exemplifying his grounded demeanor.
Family Support
In a poignant moment, Jurel reflected on his journey, acknowledging the unwavering support of his father, a former Army personnel. Recounting his father’s initial reluctance towards his cricketing pursuits, Jurel expressed gratitude for his family’s sacrifices and encouragement.