The BCCI selection committee on Friday (January 13) announced Team India’s squad for the first two Tests of the upcoming five-match series against England, starting January 25 in Hyderabad.

While most of the picks were on the expected lines, there was one notable inclusion in the squad that caught everyone’s attention.

Dhruv Jurel, the 22-year-old from Agra, earned his maiden Test call-up as a backup wicketkeeping option in the 16-member squad.

Speaking to JioCinema, Jurel recalled the moment he saw his name in the Indian Test squad, saying it was his childhood dream to be part of the senior national team.

"I was literally shocked. Every kid who picks up a bat dreams of playing for India. After seeing my name in the squad, I felt I was living a dream. I was not able to understand where I was, I was wondering if it's for real," Jurel said.

The wicketkeeper-batter shared an emotional post on social media, thanking his parents after his selection was confirmed.

Jurel admitted that it was one of the most emotional moments of his life and he wanted to talk to his family members.

"I think for a middle-class kid, it looks a bit difficult when you wonder 'how will it happen?' considering the competition in the country. It's not a cheap game, we have to manage financially as well. So, I walked down a memory lane of how the journey has unfolded so far. I spoke to my mother, father and my sister after the call-up. It was a very good and emotional moment" he added.

Dhruv Jurel recalled his chat with MS Dhoni from last year, saying it was a dream to interact with the legendary Indian captain.

Jurel also revealed the million-dollar advice he received from Dhoni. "I have been a big fan of MS Dhoni. Last year, I got a chance to talk to him. I was talking to him about his mindset. He told me 'Just focus on the next ball and don't think about anything else'. He told me most of the pressure comes from within. He told me to visualise and focus on my preparation. He told me to 'watch the ball'. He told me that I have already done so much and that's why I am here.”

"He said 'don't doubt yourself, just watch the ball and express yourself. Don't focus on results, just focus on the process'," Jurel stated.

The Uttar Pradesh lad expressed his love for keeping as well, admitting that he enjoys the glovework more than batting.

"I enjoy wicket-keeping. I feel good that I am always involved in the game. More than batting, I love wicketkeeping because I find a lot of joy. Regardless of the format, I love the ball coming to me. Wicketkeeping also has helped me with my batting in terms of understanding the pitches and the shots I have to play," he remarked.