Dhruv Jurel Hits Unbeaten 115 as India Declare at 503/9 Against Sri Lanka
Colombo — Wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel struck an unbeaten 115 as India declared their first innings at 503/9 on the second day of the second Test against Sri Lanka at the Sinhalese Sports Club Ground on Monday.
Jurel faced 177 balls and hit nine fours and two sixes while anchoring India’s lower order. His innings included a crucial 112-run partnership with Rishabh Pant, who scored 63.
Sri Lanka pacer Asitha Fernando was the pick of the bowlers with figures of 4-106, while Prabath Jayasuriya and Keshara Nuwantha claimed two wickets each.
Play resumed after a rain delay of two hours and 10 minutes with Jurel on 95. He initially took a cautious approach as Sri Lanka crowded the bat and attempted to prevent easy singles.
Jurel eventually completed his century after 22 deliveries, driving Fernando back past the bowler before diving to complete a risky single. He celebrated by displaying a tattoo on his arm reading “Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan.”
After reaching the milestone, Jurel immediately increased the tempo, stepping out and sending Fernando over long-on for six.
Jayasuriya later trapped Mohammed Siraj lbw, ending his 29-ball stay at the crease. India unsuccessfully reviewed the decision.
Jurel continued attacking alongside Prasidh Krishna, pulling Fernando over deep backward square leg for another six. Krishna then struck a boundary through cover to take India beyond 500.
Captain Shubman Gill declared shortly afterward, bringing the innings to a close after 138 overs and giving India’s bowlers an opportunity to attack Sri Lanka with the new ball before stumps.
Devdutt Padikkal was India’s other centurion, scoring 117.
Brief Scores: India 503/9 declared in 138 overs (Devdutt Padikkal 117, Dhruv Jurel 115 not out; Asitha Fernando 4-106, Prabath Jayasuriya 2-132) vs. Sri Lanka. (Source: IANS)
