The Rise of Dhruv Jurel and Devdutt Padikkal in India’s Test Series Against England
Several prominent Indian players were absent from the recently finished Test series against England, which allowed others to take advantage of the opportunity and establish strong credentials. Dhruv Jurel and Devdutt Padikkall were two of the series’ greatest discoveries. Both contributed significant hits that helped India win the series. The mystery that remained after the series concluded was who had chosen Jurel and Padikkal. Following the game in Dharamsala, India’s coach Rahul Dravid praised the team and Chairman of Selectors Ajit Agarkar.
It has now been established that Agarkar selected and supported Jurel. According to a report, Agarkar felt confident in Jurel, but the team management was unsure about him.
“Jurel’s name was proposed by Agarkar. Given that he was still a rookie, the team management wasn’t entirely sure about him. It was always going to be a risky decision to bring a young player who hasn’t got much red-ball experience at the highest level into the Indian squad for a crucial series against England, but Agarkar had seen enough to attest to the young player, a BCCI source told.
Agarkar’s Forward-Looking Approach: Choosing Padikkal Over Pujara
According to the source, there was discussion of returning to Cheteshwar Pujara, who was having success on the domestic circuit.
“Cheteshwar Pujara, who was amassing runs in the Ranji Trophy, was discussed. There was practically no experience in the batting lineup. But Agarkar refused to back down, seeing Padikkal’s choice as a step forward. The insider continued, “He was there when he struck a fluid 150 in a Ranji Trophy match and he thought his height would help against the young England spinners.
Also Read: Shreyas Iyer Might Miss Entire IPL 2024 Season, Kolkata Knight Riders Seek Replacement
Gavaskar and Dravid Laud Agarkar and the Selection Committee After India’s Series Win
Following India’s victory over England, head coach Sunil Gavaskar showered appreciation on Rahul Dravid and his support staff for their “backroom work”; the head coach also immediately brought up the efforts of the Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee.
“Ajit and his colleagues deserve special recognition as well. We don’t really get to see many of the young people that join the team as coaches or captains. As much domestic cricket as Ajit and his selectors’ squad play, we don’t see it. They have exerted pressure on us. They came out and gave a performance, and they challenged us to choose a few of these kids. Being a selector is not simple. After India defeated England 4-1 in the series, Dravid commented in an interview, “You always get the criticism but a big pat on the back to Ajit and his team.”
