Dhruv Jurel’s journey into the world of cricket is a tale of pure grit and determination. Starting from scratch in Agra back in 2014, at a tender age of 14, he set out alone to pursue his cricketing dreams in Noida. His destination? A cricket academy run by the renowned coach Phool Chand.
With no guardian by his side, Jurel approached Chand with a simple yet determined request, “Sir, my name is Dhruv Jurel, and please take me into your academy.” Impressed by his confidence, Chand welcomed him with open arms, marking the beginning of an extraordinary journey.
Despite initial hesitations from his father, Nem Chand, a retired Havildar, who was dealing with his own grief, Jurel remained resolute in his pursuit of cricket. Phool Chand vividly remembers that day when a lone 13-year-old showed up at his academy, leaving a lasting impression of someone truly special.
Jurel’s path wasn’t smooth sailing. He faced challenges like finding accommodation and financial support. However, his dedication and raw talent propelled him forward. Reflecting on Jurel’s progress, Phool Chand proudly stated that Jurel was his first student to enter Test cricket and the second to step into international cricket after Shivam Mavi.
Jurel’s journey to the senior team was a gradual climb. He represented Uttar Pradesh in age-group cricket before captaining the India Under-19 team to the runners-up position in the 2020 World Cup. His talent was further acknowledged when he was picked by the Rajasthan Royals in the 2022 IPL auction, making his debut the following year.
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His coach recalls countless matches played in local tournaments around Delhi and NCR, where Jurel’s skill blossomed with each game. One particular instance stood out when Jurel’s potential was recognized, leading him to win the final for his club with a remarkable 86 off just 38 balls.
As Jurel received his Test cap, emotions overflowed for Phool Chand, who had been a guiding force in his early years. Jurel’s success is not just about talent; it’s about the unwavering support from his family and mentors. His mother’s sacrifice, pawning her gold jewelry to buy him his first cricket kit, speaks volumes about the family’s commitment to his dreams.
Looking ahead, Phool Chand is confident in Jurel’s future success, believing in his ability to leave a mark in the cricketing world. Jurel’s debut performance in the ongoing third Test against England in Rajkot is a testament to his skill and determination, reinforcing his coach’s faith in him.
From mourning a tehrvi to making his Test debut, Dhruv Jurel’s journey symbolizes resilience, hard work, and unyielding determination. His story is a beacon of hope for aspiring cricketers, proving that with dedication and perseverance, dreams can indeed come true.
What Dhoni told Dhruv Jurel
Moreover, Jurel’s admiration for MS Dhoni and the invaluable advice he received during IPL 2021 further highlights the impact of mentorship in his journey. Dhoni’s simple yet profound counsel to focus on the ball and the game resonated deeply with Jurel, emphasizing the transformative power of guidance in shaping a young athlete’s career.