Dhruv Jurel has claimed that if he is able to even reach five percent of the achievements of MS Dhoni, then he would be happy.
Jurel caught the eye of everyone during last year’s IPL and some incredible performances in the domestic circuit meant that the UP batter found his dream becoming a reality.
Jurel was picked as part of the squad for the Test series against England as he was picked as the third designated wicketkeeper in the side. The UP youngster hasn’t made it a secret about who he idolised while growing up, with Dhoni firmly being his idol.
Jurel had the chance to rub shoulders with the former India skipper during the IPL 2023 season, and revealed the tips he got from the legendary wicketkeeper. Speaking to Wisden, Jurel would open up once again on his idol and said he has been inspired a lot by Dhoni.
The UP star admitted that he does harbour the wish to be like the CSK skipper but even if he is able to reach five percent of the achievements by Dhoni, then he would be happy.
“He inspires me a lot,” Jurel says of Dhoni. “When I look at him – what kind of aura he has created in the last 18-20 yearsâæ it’s untouchable! I want to be like him, not 100 per cent – even if I am five per cent of MS Dhoni, I am more than happy.”
Am in a dream or is it real? Jurel recalls meeting Dhoni for the first time
Meeting his idol for the first time, Jurel revealed how he was pinching himself wondering if he was sitting next to Dhoni himself.
“I was just staring at him for five minutes. I didn’t know he was literally sitting in front of me. I was pinching myself – ‘Am I in a dream or is it real?’”
Jurel revealed the advice Dhoni gave him about being calm and trying to hit straight. The UP star joked that he did try it out and it worked for him while batting.
“Keep calm and try to hit straight.” All of it might sound too simple, but it’s what makes him who he is. “I have tried it, and it works!” chuckles Jurel.
