India’s assistant coach, Ryan ten Doeschate, has confirmed that wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel is set to be part of India’s playing XI for the opening Test against South Africa, starting Friday in Kolkata. Jurel’s consistent form with both bat and gloves has reportedly convinced the selectors and team management to include him in the lineup.

“I’d be very surprised if both Dhruv and Rishabh aren’t in the playing XI for this Test,” Ten Doeschate remarked, hinting that the team could feature both wicketkeepers.

Jurel has been in superb touch over the past few months, particularly with his back-to-back centuries in Bangalore during the second unofficial Test against South Africa A. Despite India A’s loss, his performances stood out and further strengthened his case for national selection.

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