Dhruv to Play Alongside Rishabh Pant in Eden Test; All-Rounder Nitish Reddy Released

In-form Dhruv Jurel Included as Specialist Batter Alongside Rishabh Pant for Kolkata Test

On Wednesday, the assistant coach of the Indian men's cricket team, Ryan ten Doeschate, confirmed that Dhruv Jurel will play in the first Test match against South Africa. Jurel's strong and consistent performance in recent matches makes him a great addition to the team. When speaking about Jurel's selection, Doeschate stated, "I don't think you can leave him out for this Test, is the short answer." 

Jurel's Batting Form Forces Team Management's Hand

India's assistant coach has cleared all the confusion about Dhruv’s inclusion in the team. While speaking about the team India squad for the Test match, he remarked, “But obviously, you can pick one XI as well, so someone else will miss out. Given the way Dhruv has gone about in the last six months, with two centuries in Bengaluru last week (unbeaten 132 and 127 against South Africa ‘A’), he is certain to play this week”.

He further added, “We have a pretty good idea about the combination (for the Eden Test). For me (Spinners), Washington Sundar, Ravindra Jadeja, and Axar Patel are also three batters, and that does give us a lot of flexibility. But I’d be very surprised if Dhruv and Rishabh Pant don’t play this week.”

Nitish Reddy Released to Gain Valuable 'A' Team Match Practice

Nitish Kumar Reddy has been released from the first Test match to join the India 'A' team. This decision was made to ensure he gets crucial match practice by participating in the upcoming List A (50-over) series against South Africa 'A' in Rajkot.

The move is part of a broader strategy to train him for future cricket matches. While he may be a key talent, the team management, led by ten Doeschate, emphasized that the primary focus is on establishing a winning strategy for the main Test series.

Doeschate explained that Reddy had limited game time in a recent white-ball series in Australia. Considering the importance of the current series and anticipated conditions, it was better for him to play competitive matches elsewhere rather than sit on the bench. Reddy will be available to rejoin the main squad in Guwahati if needed for the second Test match.