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Dhruv Jurel scored his maiden Test hundred at Narendra Modi Stadium against West Indies, celebrating with a salute tribute to his father Nem Chand, a Kargil War veteran.
Indian wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel registered his maiden Test hundred during the opening match against the West Indies at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Friday.
His innings, marked by patience, confidence, and precise stroke play, highlighted his potential as one of India’s most promising young talents. Dhruv Jurel reached his hundred with a flick through the gap between mid-wicket and mid-on for a boundary, reaching the three-figure mark in 190 deliveries.
India Vs West Indies: 1st Test, Day 2 – Live Score
As the crowd erupted, Jurel removed his helmet, raised his bat high, and soaked in the ovation from thousands who appreciated the moment’s significance.
His celebration was both emotional and dignified. After a quick embrace with partner Ravindra Jadeja, Jurel made a salute-like gesture – a symbolic tribute to his father, who served in the Indian Army.
Why Jurel Does Salute Celebration?
Jurel’s father, Nem Chand, is a retired Havildar of the Indian Army who served in the 1999 Kargil War. Jurel has explained in previous interviews that the salute is a tribute to his father’s service.
“The last day, I spoke to him, my father indirectly told me ‘ek salute to dikha de (show me the salute once),’” Jurel had told the BCCI in an interview. “He was a Kargil war veteran so my celebration was for him.”
Jurel recalled how his father wanted him to take the National Defence Academy (NDA) exam and join the army.
“Whenever I feel confused, I will talk to him. He guides me. He is my hero,” he had said.
“I was preparing for the NDA but I wasn’t able to focus too much,” Jurel was quoted as saying to India Today.
Jurel’s Record-Breaking Hundred
Dhruv Jurel became the 12th Indian wicketkeeper to score a Test century. Interestingly, five of these players achieved their maiden hundred against the West Indies, namely Vijay Manjrekar, Farookh Engineer, Ajay Ratra, Wriddhiman Saha and Jurel.
Ritayan Basu, Senior Sub-Editor, Sports at News18.com. Has been covering domestic and and international football for nearly a decade. Has played and covered badminton. Ocassionally writes cricket content, havin…Read More
Ritayan Basu, Senior Sub-Editor, Sports at News18.com. Has been covering domestic and and international football for nearly a decade. Has played and covered badminton. Ocassionally writes cricket content, havin… Read More
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