Jurel's Heroic Century in Colombo: A Test Privilege!
Jurel's Heroic Century in Colombo: A Test Privilege!
Indian cricketer Dhruv Jurel smashes his second Test century against Sri Lanka in Colombo, navigating nervous nineties, rain delays, and even donning the wicket-keeping gloves! A privilege, he says!
Dhruv Jurel, the young Indian cricketer, stole the spotlight in Colombo, gritting out a remarkable second Test century against Sri Lanka. His innings was a blend of patience, skill, and a touch of drama, particularly when he found himself stuck on 99 runs.
“
So actually, when I was on 99, before that I was getting runs, and on 99, he (Asitha Fernando) started bowling good lengths,
” Jurel recalled, speaking to the media in Colombo on Monday (August 24, 2026). The tension was palpable, not just on the field but also in the Indian dressing room, with his teammates watching anxiously.
He survived a run-out attempt and finally broke through after 13 deliveries, hitting a shot he initially thought would go past the fielder, exclaiming, “oh God!”
The match itself was plagued by stop-start play due to persistent rains, but Jurel appeared unfazed. “I am used to it because I was here with India A and am aware of the situation, about the (rain) breaks,” he explained. His focus remained clear: “I was just trying to bat in partnerships and also assess the conditions. Even if I scored a 100 today, tomorrow I will go and start from zero, that's how it is.”
Adding to his impressive display, Jurel also donned the wicket-keeping gloves during Sri Lanka's first innings. He clarified the temporary change, stating, “Right now, (Rishabh) Pant has a sore right shoulder. We are closely monitoring him.
Today I kept wickets, hopefully he will be fit.” This versatility further highlighted his value to the team.
Jurel also took a moment to praise his opposition, specifically bowler Asitha Fernando, who had challenged him intensely during his nervous nineties. “
It was so hot and he used the short ball. It’s not easy for a bowler, and he was really challenging, especially when I was on 99,
” he acknowledged.
His hundred was crucial in taking India to a commanding total of 503 for 9 before they declared, despite only 53 overs being possible on Day 2 due to rain. With his place under pressure and competition from Sarfaraz Khan, this performance could be a career-defining one. Emphasizing the importance of the format, Jurel concluded, “Playing Test cricket is a privilege.
We want to play well both in white and in blue.” This century firmly solidifies his position and showcases his commitment to the longest format of the game.
