Dhruv Jurel on Rishabh Pant Rivalry: “No Competition Between Us, If We Both Play, Even Better”

Promising wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel has shut down talk of any rivalry between himself and Rishabh Pant, emphasizing that both share a common goal — helping India win.

In an exclusive conversation with Star Sports ahead of the India vs South Africa Test series, Jurel said there is no competition between him and Pant, describing their dynamic as one built on respect and teamwork rather than rivalry.

“There is no competition between me and Rishabh bhai. Both of us are playing for India, and whoever plays, the motive is the same: to make India win. If he plays, I am happy. If I play, I am happy. If we play together, even better. The only focus is the team,” Jurel said.

‘We’re Playing for India, Not Against Each Other’

The 24-year-old, who has been Rishabh Pant’s understudy in the Indian Test setup, has impressed selectors and fans alike with his calm temperament, sharp glovework, and mature batting.

With Pant making his international return after recovering from his 2022 accident, many expected a selection battle between the two wicketkeepers. However, Jurel’s response makes it clear that the dressing room’s focus remains collective rather than individual.

“We both want India to win matches. That’s what matters the most. There’s mutual respect between us, and we’re both constantly learning from each other,” Jurel said.

From Understudy to Match-Winner

Jurel, who made his Test debut earlier this year, rose to prominence during India’s West Indies tour, where he stepped in for Pant and scored his maiden Test hundred. His gritty innings drew praise from veterans including Rahul Dravid and Sunil Gavaskar, who hailed him as one of India’s most promising all-format wicketkeeper-batters.

He continued his fine form in the India A vs South Africa A series, where he smashed twin centuries in the second unofficial Test, even as Rishabh Pant captained the side. The performances have sparked a debate over whether Jurel should feature in India’s Kolkata Test against South Africa starting November 14.

‘Every Time I Bat, I Play for the Situation’

Speaking about his approach to batting, Jurel explained that his focus remains on reading match situations and contributing in whatever way the team requires.

“I am very confident that I’ll be able to contribute to the team. As a cricketer, the best feeling is when you come back to your room after the match and feel like you’ve done something for your team that helped them win,” Jurel said.

“Every time I go in to bat, I look at the situation and think about what the team needs from me at that moment, and I try to play accordingly,” he added.

Known for his composure under pressure, Jurel’s ability to switch gears — either defending stubbornly with the tail or accelerating with top-order partners — has made him a valuable asset in red-ball cricket.

Possible No. 3 Role in Kolkata Test

Team management sources indicate that Jurel is under serious consideration for a No. 3 batting role in the upcoming Kolkata Test against South Africa. His recent consistency has reportedly impressed the selectors, who view him as part of India’s long-term Test core.

If selected, the match would also mark the first instance of both Pant and Jurel being included in the same XI since the 2024 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, where they briefly shared wicketkeeping and middle-order duties.

“Dhruv’s adaptability and calm presence make him a captain’s dream,” a senior team official told All India Story. “Whether he’s behind the stumps or with the bat, he always puts the team’s needs first.”

Rishabh Pant’s Comeback and Leadership Role

Meanwhile, Rishabh Pant, who led India A in the unofficial Tests against South Africa, continues to regain full match fitness and batting rhythm. His leadership and explosive batting remain vital to India’s plans, especially with the WTC 2025 Final in sight.

Pant’s return brings balance to the squad, but the emergence of Jurel ensures India now has two world-class wicketkeeper-batters, capable of adapting across formats and conditions.

The Bigger Picture: Team India’s New Depth

The conversation around Jurel and Pant highlights a new era of healthy competition within Indian cricket. With multiple players vying for the same role yet prioritizing team success, India’s depth — particularly in the wicketkeeping department — has become a major strength.

“We’ve always said India’s bench strength is our biggest asset,” a BCCI official remarked. “Jurel’s maturity and Pant’s experience complement each other — and that’s a good problem for any captain to have.”

As India prepares for the first Test at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, the focus will not just be on who wears the gloves — but on how the two cricketers continue to lift each other’s game for the team’s success.

Final Word

Dhruv Jurel’s humility and clarity of thought reflect the evolving mindset within Indian cricket — where individual brilliance and collective goals can coexist.

Whether alongside Rishabh Pant or in his place, Jurel has made one thing clear: for him, it’s always India first.