Jurel misses century but leaves giant impression

India batter shows what he can offer with gritty 90 to lift hosts before bowlers take over on Day 3

- GOMESH S

DHRUV Jurel was distraught. He could not believe his luck. After missing out on a milestone on his debut in Rajkot he had got out for 46 - the youngster once again fell just short of another, here at the JSCA International Stadium on Sunday. Just when it seemed like he would reach his first Test century, he had just missed out with Tom Hartley cleaning him up for 90 as India were all out for 307.

The 23-year-old from UP was looking down before looking around with a sense of disbelief. That's when a familiar face came around to offer comfort.

That familiar face was Joe Root, the centurion for England on the opening day and his Rajasthan Royals (RR) teammate in the Indian Premier League.

While Jurel has been exhibiting signs of promise in the ongoing Test series, Root was one of the first high-profile names to recognise his talent. Before leaving the RR camp last year, the former England skipper had indicated the same to the youngster. 'I know that you are going to be the superstar. I can see the potential in you' were Root's words. Jurel made his debut in Rajkot against Root last week.