Rajasthan Royals batter Dhruv Jurel lived his dream in the IPL 2023 match against Chennai Super Kings as he got the opportunity to have a conversation with his idol, Dhoni. Jurel narrated how he felt when he saw Dhoni for the first time and shared details of his conversation with the legendary wicketkeeper-batter.
In Short
- Dhruv Jurel reveals details of his conversation with Dhoni
- Dhoni shared the mantra of being a finisher with Jurel
- Jurel admitted that he stared at Dhoni for five minutes
By India Today Sports DeskMS Dhoni is arguably one of the greatest captains in the history of cricket. His cricketing acumen, work behind the wickets and ability to finish a match, makes Dhoni an inspiring cricketer.
Those who have been able to meet the ‘Captain Cool’ consider themselves lucky. Rajasthan Royals batter Dhruv Jurel became the latest player to “share the field” with his idol, Dhoni. Jurel, who received his IPL debut cap against Punjab Kings, has so far played four games in the ongoing tournament.
The 22-year-old Jurel lived his dream in Rajasthan Royals’ fixture against Chennai Super Kings. After RR beat CSK by three runs, Jurel got an opportunity to have a conversation with Dhoni. The youngster narrated how he felt when he first saw the legendary wicketkeeper-batter for the first time and “stared at him for five minutes”.
“I shared the field with my idol, MS Dhoni, for the first time. That day, I thought, ‘Nothing’s impossible’, Jurel told Humans of Bombay. “It was surreal to meet players I grew up admiring.
“When I saw Mahi Bhai for the first time, I stood at a distance and stared at him for 5 minutes. I thought, ‘Bas mehnat karni hai, waha tak pohchna hai.’
Jurel also revealed details of his conversation with Dhoni, who shared the mantra of being a finisher.
“Not only did I share a field with Mahi Bhai, but I also spoke to him! When I asked him how he always stays calm, he said, ‘As a finisher, you only get 1-2 overs to make your mark. Just believe in yourself and start hitting,” Jurel added.
Jurel also said that he was not nervous during his IPL debut game against Punjab Kings, adding that he just desperately wanted to play. The youngster’s 15-ball cameo saw him hitting 32 not out but PBKS prevailed over RR.
“When I finally got a chance to bat against Punjab this year, I wasn’t nervous. I was just desperate to play. My eyes stayed on the ball, and I forgot about everything else. When people appreciated my game, I was overjoyed!” Jurel said.
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