In a truly memorable performance in Ahmedabad, Dhruv Jurel achieved a significant career milestone by scoring his first-ever Test hundred in the opening match against West Indies. The 24-year-old wicketkeeper-batter crafted a superb 125 runs off 210 balls, an innings characterized by remarkable grit and composure, marked by two deeply personal and heartfelt celebrations.
Jurel first acknowledged his half-century with a raised fist salute. Later, upon reaching his century, he performed a unique ‘gun salute’ gesture, holding his bat upright as a profound tribute. After the day’s play, Jurel explained his celebrations: “My fifty celebration was for my father. The hundred celebration was for the Indian army because I have seen closely how hard they work. So, I will always look to dedicate it to them because they deserve it.”
This salute has become a distinctive mark for Jurel, first seen during his maiden Test fifty against England earlier in 2024. The gesture carries deep personal meaning, as his father, Nem Chand, is a retired Havildar of the Indian Army and a Kargil War veteran.
Jurel’s magnificent knock was forged in partnership with Ravindra Jadeja, who remained unbeaten on 104. Together, the duo stitched a formidable 206-run stand for the fifth wicket, narrowly missing the Indian record against West Indies for that position, a 214-run partnership held by VVS Laxman and Sachin Tendulkar in Kolkata, 2002.
Jurel’s innings included 15 boundaries and three towering sixes before he eventually edged a delivery from Khary Pierre to the wicketkeeper late in the day.
Adding to India’s dominant display, KL Rahul also reached a century, his 11th in Test cricket. His patient 100 off 197 balls provided crucial stability earlier in the day after Shubman Gill was dismissed for 50. Rahul, Jurel, and Jadeja showcased contrasting styles, each patiently accumulating runs to reach their respective milestones. Rahul’s century was particularly significant, ending his long wait for a home Test hundred, while Jadeja’s effort further highlighted his consistent batting form.
By stumps, India had amassed a commanding total of 448 for 5 in 128 overs, establishing a massive lead of 286 runs. The West Indies spinners struggled to pose a consistent threat to India’s middle order.
With three centuries enriching the same innings, India appears firmly in control of the match, and Dhruv Jurel’s maiden ton, coupled with his emotional tributes, stands out as the defining moment of Day 2 in Ahmedabad.