Dhruv Jurel scores century as India sets dominant position against Sri Lanka

Before the Sri Lanka series, Dhruv Jurel had gone eight innings without a 50-plus score, with questions being raised over his game against spin. He responded with 51 in the first Test and followed it with his second Test hundred, taking his series tally to 173 runs at an average of 86.5. The Indian team management has backed Jurel as a specialist middle-order batter even when he is not required to keep wickets.

Powered by Jurel’s composed and flawless unbeaten 115 off 177 balls, with nine fours and two sixes, and Rishabh Pant’s entertaining 63 off 89 balls, with six fours and two sixes, India declared at 503 for nine. Then, they reduced Sri Lanka to 8/2 on Day Two of the second and final Test in Colombo on Monday.

Dhruv Jurel's remarkable performance saw him score an impressive unbeaten 115 against Sri Lanka, marking his second Test century. This achievement places him alongside Hardik Pandya as one of the few Indian players to earn a Test century while batting at number seven or lower in Sri Lanka. His well-structured innings, featuring nine fours and two sixes, was vital in helping India amass a solid 503/9 before declaring.

Dhruv Jurel showcased his batting prowess with an impressive unbeaten century, propelling India to a solid 503/9 before declaring. The bowlers then struck early, reducing Sri Lanka to a precarious 8/2. Rishabh Pant also played a vital role, with a quickfire 63 runs. Despite rain interruptions, Jurel achieved his landmark after a nail-biting moment, positioning India for a commanding lead as they enter the third day of the Test.