Dhruv Jurel’s childhood coach reveals Gautam Gambhir’s inspiring chat with wicket-keeper ahead of 5th ENG vs IND 2025 Test

With Dhruv Jurel all set to replace injured Rishabh Pant in the fifth Test match against England at the Oval, the youngster’s childhood coach Parvendra Yadav has revealed head coach Gautam Gambhir’s inspiring words for the wicket-keeper bat.

Jurel has impressed with the gloves while keeping in place of Rishabh Pant in the last two Test matches and he would look to grab his opportunity.

Yadav revealed that Gambhir praised him for his wicket-keeping and told him to be ready for his chance in the Anderson-Tendulkar series. Jurel had also scored 227 runs in two unofficial Test matches against England Lions while playing for India A.

Parvendra Yadav told TOI, “Jurel has already been tested in the series with the gloves and has scored valuable runs, so it’s going to be a good opportunity for Dhruv. Gambhir has spoken to him and is impressed with his keeping. ‘Mauka milega, ready rehna’ — is what Gambhir told him. Gambhir had a brief chat with him. He motivated him a lot. In fact, he told him, ‘You will be the backbone of India’s middle order.’ ‘Jab mauka mile, do better’ — that’s what Gambhir said to him.”

“Gambhir hailed him and said, ‘Acha keeping kiya. Mauka milega zarur, intezar karo, keep working hard’. Gambhir said, ‘Dhruv, you have the capability to bat from the No. 5 to No. 8 positions.’ It’s a challenging role, especially when the team is in deep trouble or needs runs. Coach saab taught him how to prepare for different batting positions. He is learning and applying everything in his game.”

Yadav revealed former Indian captain MS Dhoni’s advice has also changed Jurel’s life.

“His meetings with MS Dhoni have changed his life. Dhoni told him to keep a 360-degree angle. How to maintain a 360-degree view — that’s what he learnt from Dhoni,” said Parvendra Yadav.

“Pant has also motivated him a lot. In fact, during the series, he sat with Pant and took some keeping tips. He has passed on his keeping skills to him.”

The fifth and final Test match between England and India will be played at the Kennington Oval, London, from 31st July onwards.