Former spinner Murali Kartik has backed Dhruv Jurel over Sarfaraz Khan for a middle-order spot in India’s playing XI for the upcoming first Test against Sri Lanka in Galle, emphasizing squad consistency and player security.
Speaking during a media roundtable organized by the Sony Sports Network, Kartik pointed out that while Sarfaraz has done nothing wrong, he has entered the squad as a late injury replacement for Sai Sudharsan.
According to Kartik, dropping Jurel for a replacement player could send the wrong message regarding spot security since he has been a continuous part of the red-ball squad.
Beyond his batting abilities, Jurel provides wicketkeeping utility if required by the team during the game.
“Sarfaraz has come in place of Sai Sudharsan. Dhruv Jurel has been part of the side; he’s a very handy Test batter, and he’s done exactly what the team has asked. I would want him to start. Sarfaraz has done nothing wrong, but he’s coming in as a replacement. For me, the key going forward is consistency—in how we play, how we pick sides, and in our messaging. Players must feel secure about their places. And Jurel is a wonderful wicketkeeper if needed. So I would want Dhruv to start," Kartik said.
While Kartik wants Jurel to start, the Gautam Gambhir-led Indian team management faces a selection dilemma. Galle is traditionally known to heavily favor spin bowling, and Sarfaraz is regarded as one of India's finest domestic players against spin.
Additionally, there is a strong possibility that India might field all four spinners from their squad, which could result in neither Jurel nor Sarfaraz finding a spot in the final XI if extra bowling utility is prioritized.
Meanwhile, Devdutt Padikkal has strengthened his claims to replace Sudharsan at No. 3 in the lineup after slamming a century in the warm-up fixture against Sri Lanka Cricket XI.
Jurel didn’t help his case from the specialist batter point of view in the practice match, returning with scores of 1 (9) and 17 (20) across two innings. On the other hand, Sarfaraz last played for India in the home Test series against New Zealand, where he smashed a hundred in Bengaluru.
