In a move that blends urgency with opportunity, the Indian cricket selectors have handed a national call-up to in-form wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel for the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand. With star gloveman Rishabh Pant ruled out due to a side strain, Jurel steps into the India ODI squad on the back of one of the most dominant domestic campaigns in recent memory .
This isn’t just a routine replacement—it’s a high-stakes debut window for a young talent who’s been knocking on the door with relentless consistency. And if his Vijay Hazare Trophy numbers are any indication, he might just be ready for the big stage.
Table of Contents
- Why Dhruv Jurel Was Chosen
- Rishabh Pant’s Injury and Timeline
- Dhruv Jurel’s Vijay Hazare Dominance
- What Jurel Brings to the India ODI Squad
- Competition for the Keeper’s Role
- India vs New Zealand ODI Series Preview
- Conclusion: A New Chapter Begins
- Sources
Why Dhruv Jurel Was Chosen
When Rishabh Pant suffered a side strain during practice ahead of the ODI leg of the New Zealand tour, the BCCI needed a like-for-like replacement—a wicketkeeper who could also contribute valuable runs in the middle order. Enter Dhruv Jurel.
At just 23 years old, Jurel has already built a reputation as a gritty, technically sound batter with sharp glovework. But it’s his recent form that sealed the deal. In the 2025–26 Vijay Hazare Trophy, he didn’t just perform—he dominated.
Rishabh Pant’s Injury and Timeline
Pant, who made a celebrated comeback to international cricket in 2024 after his near-fatal car accident, has been a linchpin in India’s white-ball setup. However, the side strain—confirmed via scans—has forced him to sit out the three-match ODI series starting January 18, 2026, in Mumbai .
While the injury isn’t considered long-term, the BCCI is taking no chances. With the ICC Champions Trophy looming later in 2026, managing Pant’s workload is now a top priority. This opens the door for fresh blood—and Jurel is walking through it with confidence.
Dhruv Jurel’s Vijay Hazare Dominance
Jurel’s case for selection wasn’t built on potential—it was forged in runs. Representing Uttar Pradesh, he amassed 558 runs in the Vijay Hazare Trophy at a staggering average of over 90, including two centuries and three fifties .
More impressively, he captained UP to the top of Elite Group B, showcasing leadership under pressure. His ability to anchor innings while accelerating when needed mirrors the modern ODI template—exactly what India needs in the No. 5 or 6 slot.
Here’s a snapshot of his Vijay Hazare 2025–26 stats:
- Matches: 8
- Runs: 558
- Highest Score: 137*
- Average: 93.00
- Strike Rate: 98.42
What Jurel Brings to the India ODI Squad
Beyond the numbers, Jurel offers balance. He’s a genuine wicketkeeper—unlike some part-time options—which gives India tactical flexibility. His batting style is compact yet adaptable, capable of rotating strike early and clearing boundaries in the death overs.
Crucially, he’s already familiar with the national setup, having been part of India A tours and the National Cricket Academy (NCA) camps. As noted by former selector Saba Karim in a recent interview, “Jurel has the temperament for international cricket. He doesn’t look overwhelmed” .
For fans wondering how he compares to other contenders like Ishan Kishan or KS Bharat, Jurel’s current red-hot form gave him the edge. [INTERNAL_LINK:india-odi-squad-selection-criteria] often prioritizes in-form domestic performers, especially for short-term replacements.
Competition for the Keeper’s Role
While KL Rahul is expected to don the gloves in Pant’s absence, Jurel’s inclusion adds depth. If Rahul bats higher up (say, at No. 4), Jurel could be slotted in as the specialist keeper-batter—a role that’s become increasingly vital in ODI cricket.
This also signals the selectors’ intent to build a robust succession plan. With MS Dhoni retired and Pant still managing fitness post-accident, grooming the next generation is non-negotiable. Jurel, along with players like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Tilak Varma, represents India’s new core.
India vs New Zealand ODI Series Preview
The three-match series kicks off on January 18 in Mumbai, followed by matches in Pune (Jan 21) and Kolkata (Jan 24). It serves as a crucial warm-up before the ICC Champions Trophy and will test India’s bench strength.
New Zealand, led by Mitchell Santner in Kane Williamson’s absence, will be no pushovers. Their pace attack—featuring Matt Henry and Lockie Ferguson—will challenge India’s middle order. This is where Jurel’s composure could prove invaluable.
According to ESPNcricinfo’s preview, “India’s biggest test will be adaptability in unfamiliar conditions”—making versatile players like Jurel key assets .
Conclusion: A New Chapter Begins
Dhruv Jurel’s call-up to the India ODI squad is more than a backup plan—it’s a statement. It shows that consistent excellence in domestic cricket still paves the way to the national jersey. As India faces New Zealand without its explosive wicketkeeper, all eyes will be on this young UP star to see if he can turn opportunity into legacy. One thing’s for sure: the cricketing world is watching.
Sources
- Times of India: Dhruv Jurel to join India ODI squad as Rishabh Pant’s replacement
- BCCI Official Website: Board of Control for Cricket in India
- ESPNcricinfo: IND vs NZ ODI Series Preview