Why Dhruv Jurel Could Be India’s Next Great No.3 Batter?

Dhruv Jurel has been a reliable performer for Team India in Rishabh Pant’s absence, proving his potential with consistent performances. The 24-year-old made headlines by scoring his maiden Test hundred against the West Indies at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Which led to sparked discussions about promoting him up the batting order. With India facing instability at the No.3 position and Jurel showing maturity with the bat, it might be the right time to consider him for the crucial role once Pant returns. His adaptability, solid technique, and temperament make him a strong candidate to strengthen India’s top order.

• Strong Domestic Record at the Top Order

Although known as a middle-order batter, Jurel has significant experience batting in the top order in domestic cricket. During the 2022-23 Ranji Trophy season, he played primarily as an opener for Uttar Pradesh, scoring 429 runs in seven innings at an impressive average of 71.5, including his highest first-class score of 249.

His success against the new ball and ability to anchor the innings reveal his readiness to handle the challenges that come with the No.3 spot. Jurel’s time as an opener in both red-ball and T20 formats, such as the Uttar Pradesh T20 League, has sharpened his awareness and technique against early swing and pace. Moreover, his strokeplay and counter-attacking ability make him ideal for modern-day Test cricket, where No.3 batters are expected not just to defend but also to control the tempo of the game.

• Sudharsan’s Inconsistent Form Opens the Door

Sai Sudharsan was expected to get a long run at No.3 after India’s struggles on the England tour. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar even confirmed the management’s faith in him. However, Sudharsan’s poor performance in the first Test against the West Indies, especially when compared to Jurel’s commanding hundred, has reignited the debate.

While it would be harsh to drop Sudharsan immediately, India cannot afford prolonged inconsistency at such a vital position. With Rishabh Pant’s return likely to push Jurel down the order, giving him a chance now at No.3 could be a strategic move. If Sudharsan continues to struggle, Jurel’s form and temperament make him a natural replacement capable of providing solidity at the top.

• Proven Technique Against Pace and Spin

Jurel’s performances in international and ‘A’ tours have shown his technical strength against both pace and spin. He looked confident on overseas pitches in Australia and England, handling pace and movement with maturity. At home, during the England series, he impressed on challenging tracks by playing spin with balance and composure.

His recent century against the West Indies highlighted his ability to mix caution with aggression. In an era where a No.3 batter must be both adaptable and assertive, Jurel’s combination of technique, flair, and mental toughness perfectly suits the role. His consistent performances and modern batting approach make him one of India’s most promising candidates for the No.3 position once Pant returns.