Test stars Dhruv Jurel and Devdutt Padikkal impress with father figure sixes, but Shreyas Iyer disappoints in tryouts for the Indian Test team
The 1st unofficial Test between India A and Australia A at the BRSABV Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow ended in a draw, but the performance of the batters has given the Ajit Agarkar-led committee a headache for the upcoming assignment at home.
Dhruv Jurel, with his impressive century, has raised a strong claim for his place in the team. Jurel scored 140 runs from 197 deliveries, with 13 fours and 5 sixes, a performance that has intensified the discussion around him being India's gloveman.
Jurel's form was not the only standout performance. Devdutt Padikkal scored 150 runs off 281 balls, while B Sai Sudharsan and N Jagadeesan scored 73 and 64 runs respectively. Padikkal's innings in the match represents the most convincing audition for number three.
However, the selection of Rishabh Pant is a delicate balancing act for the BCCI. If cleared to keep wickets, Pant reclaims his number five position but might face heavy workload. The BCCI is considering Yashasvi Jaiswal and K.L. Rahul as openers for the Test series against West Indies, with Rishabh Pant ruled out due to a leg injury. The final Indian Test squad will be selected online on September 23 or 24, 2025.
Shreyas Iyer and Abhimanyu Easwaran did not contribute significantly to the Indian team's score in the match, with Iyer scoring only 8 runs and Easwaran scoring 44 runs. These performances may have raised questions about their places in the team, especially with Jurel's impressive form.
In conclusion, the Lucknow Test has provided the Ajit Agarkar-led committee with a tough selection dilemma, with several players staking their claim for a spot in the team for the upcoming assignments. The final squad will be announced in the coming days, and fans will be eagerly waiting to see who makes the cut.
