Indian wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel achieved a significant milestone on Friday by scoring his maiden Test century on the second day of the first Test against the West Indies at Narendra Modi Stadium. The 23-year-old, in just his sixth Test appearance, reached the three-figure mark off 190 balls, blending patience with aggressive strokeplay that included 12 fours and two sixes. His innings came at a crucial juncture, helping India build a commanding lead after resuming at 233 for three. Jurel's knock not only stabilised the middle order but also formed part of a vital partnership, underscoring his growing maturity in red-ball cricket. This performance follows his previous best of 90 against England, marking a progression from near-misses to definitive success.

Jurel sealed his century with a boundary off West Indies captain Roston Chase, whipping a full delivery wide of mid-on using his bottom hand. The moment was celebrated uniquely, as he held his bat vertically and shifted it to his left, drawing applause from teammate Ravindra Jadeja at the non-striker's end. This quirky gesture highlighted Jurel's personality amid the pressure of international cricket. Entering the crease after KL Rahul's dismissal for 102, Jurel navigated the new ball and built steadily, avoiding the regrets of his earlier close call against England. His composure under duress reflects the depth in India's wicketkeeping options, especially with Rishabh Pant's recent form setting a high benchmark.

Historically, Jurel becomes the 12th Indian wicketkeeper to score a Test hundred and the fifth to register his maiden century against the West Indies, joining legends like Vijay Manjrekar, Farokh Engineer, Ajay Ratra, and Wriddhiman Saha. His tonne is the third by a designated Indian keeper in 2025, following Pant's two centuries, setting a new record for the most by Indian wicketkeepers in a calendar year. This equals the joint-second highest for any team in a single year, trailing only South Africa's four in 2013. These statistics emphasise Jurel's timely emergence amid India's transition in the post-MS Dhoni era, where reliable glovemen who contribute with the bat are essential.

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Jurel's achievement boosts India's position in the match, where they ended Day 2 at 448 for five, leading by 286 runs after West Indies' first-innings 71. As a product of Uttar Pradesh domestic cricket and the IPL with Rajasthan Royals, Jurel's journey from Under-19 levels to the senior team highlights his determination and skill. This century signals his potential as a long-term asset for India's Test squad, particularly in overseas conditions. With the series opener firmly in India's grasp, Jurel's form could influence selections for upcoming tours, reinforcing the team's batting resilience.

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