Dhruv Jurel
Dhruv Chand Jurel is an Indian international cricketer who plays as a right-handed wicket-keeper batter. He plays domestic cricket for Uttar Pradesh while representing Rajasthan Royals in the Indian Premier League (IPL). He served as India's vice-captain during the 2020 ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup.[1][2]
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| Dhruv Jurel in 2026 | |
| Born | 21 January 2001 (age 25) Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India |
|---|---|
| Nationality | Indian |
| Education | Dhruv Public School |
| Occupation | Cricketer |
| Years active | 2021 – Present |
| Known for | Wicket-keeper Batter, Test Performances vs England |
| Notable works | India National Team, Rajasthan Royals |
| Awards | Player of the Match (Test vs England, 2024) |
| Parents | Nem Singh Jurel (Father) |
| Religion | Hinduism |
Early Life & Education
Dhruv Jurel was born in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, into a modest Jat family. His father, Nem Singh Jurel, worked as a soldier in the Indian Army and he fought in the Kargil War. Jurel showed strong interest in cricket from his early years.
At the age of five, he had plastic surgery because of serious injuries which resulted from a major accident that damaged his leg. His parents provided full support for his cricketing aspirations despite their financial difficulties because his father borrowed money to purchase a bat for him while his mother sold her gold necklace to buy cricket equipment.
He began playing cricket at his summer camp during school before he moved to Noida to pursue official cricket coaching. He built a strong career foundation by playing for Uttar Pradesh at U-14, U-16, and U-19 levels.
Career
Domestic Career
Dhruv Jurel made his T20 debut on 10 January 2021 for Uttar Pradesh in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. He made his first-class debut on 17 February 2022 in the Ranji Trophy.
His consistent performances in domestic cricket established him as a dependable middle-order batter and wicketkeeper. He has represented India A in international tournaments which include the ACC Emerging Teams Asia Cup.
His leadership abilities received recognition when he was chosen to lead the Central Zone team during the Duleep Trophy which took place in August 2025.
Indian Premier League Career
The Rajasthan Royals acquired Jurel during the 2022 IPL auction. His IPL career started on 5 April 2023 when he faced Punjab Kings and scored 32 runs from 15 balls.
He became well-known for his ability to hit the ball hard and finish games because he achieved a strike rate above 170 in the IPL. The franchise decided to keep him for IPL 2025 because his performances impressed them and they paid him 14 crore rupees.
The Rajasthan Royals have established Jurel as an essential team member who serves both as a finisher and a wicketkeeper.
International Career
Jurel obtained his first Test match call-up to the Indian team for the England series which will begin in January 2024.
He made his Test debut on 15 February 2024 in Rajkot. In the first innings of the fourth Test, he scored 90 runs and followed with an unbeaten 39 runs, which helped India win the match. He received the Player of the Match award because of his exceptional performance.
He worked as a backup wicketkeeper during the 2025 Test series when Rishabh Pant suffered an injury in England.
Notable Works
- Vice-captain – India U19 World Cup 2020
- Match-winning performance vs England (Ranchi Test, 2024)
- Key finisher for Rajasthan Royals in IPL
- Captain – Central Zone (Duleep Trophy 2025–26)
Achievements and Recognition
- Player of the Match in Test vs England (2024)
- Retained by Rajasthan Royals for ₹14 Crore (IPL 2025)
- Recognized as emerging wicketkeeper-batter in Indian cricket
- Leadership role in domestic cricket (Central Zone Captain)
Personal Life
Dhruv Jurel stays connected with his family ties while he gives credit for his achievements to their dedicated work. His professional conduct shows the impact of his father's military training which shaped his disciplined upbringing.
Outside cricket he spends his time on fitness training and family travel activities and friend socializing. His personality includes both a humble disposition and active participation in social charitable activities.
External Links
See also
References
- ↑ 'Exceptional talent' Jurel plays his part with bat, and with the thinking cap on . In ESPNcricinfo . Retrieved 6 April 2026
- ↑ Dhruv Jurel Biography . In GoyaHills . Retrieved 6 April 2026