[Watch] Dhruv Jurel salutes his father after fine half-century in LSG vs RR IPL 2024 match
Rajasthan Royals (RR) wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel dedicated his half-century against the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) to his father Nem Chand. The latter was present at the Ekana Stadium for the IPL 2024 clash on Saturday, April 27.
Jurel got to his half-century in just 31 balls and gestured a salute to his father during the special moment. Dhruv's father is a retired Kargil War veteran from the Indian Army. The youngster has been pretty vocal about his 'salute' celebration being done for his father.
Here's the video of Dhruv Jurel's fine half-century and him saluting his father after reaching the milestone:
Jurel had also done the 'salute' celebration while representing India during the Ranchi Test against England earlier this year. It came following his sensational knock of 90, which was a stepping stone in the hosts' comeback.
Dhruv Jurel reflects on his 52*(34)
Chasing 196 to win, RR were 78/3 when Dhruv Jurel walked to the crease to pair up with skipper Sanju Samson. It did look like a tricky chase for the Royals then. However, both Jurel and Samson gradually absorbed the pressure and began turning the momentum in the visitors' favor.
Speaking to the host broadcaster after the game, here's what Jurel had to say about his knock:
"The idea was to finish the game whenever I got an opportunity. This position is sometimes a curse when you don't finish it and sometimes a blessing when you help your team win. Sanju bhai told me to react according to deliveries and not premeditate shots. Once we got a big over of around 20 runs, it became easier."
In eight innings before the one against LSG this season, Jurel had scored just 50 runs and didn't quite get the opportunities to have an impact. However, his 52* against Lucknow will give him as well as the Royals great confidence going ahead.