Who is Dhruv Jurel, Pant's Replacement for the ODI Series Against NZ?
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Synopsis
In a surprising turn of events, Dhruv Jurel steps in as Rishabh Pant's replacement for the ODI series against New Zealand, following Pant's injury. Explore Jurel's impressive stats and the implications for Team India as they prepare for this crucial challenge.
Key Takeaways
- Dhruv Jurel replaces Rishabh Pant due to injury.
- Pant diagnosed with a right side strain.
- Jurel has been in stellar form in the Vijay Hazare Trophy.
- India's ODI series against New Zealand will be crucial.
- Pant aims for a swift recovery and rehabilitation.
Mumbai, Jan 11 (NationPress) Dhruv Jurel has been appointed as the replacement for Rishabh Pant, who has been sidelined from the three-match ODI series against New Zealand due to a right side strain injury, as announced by the BCCI on Sunday.
The discomfort in Pant's right lateral abdominal area emerged suddenly while he was practicing in the nets during India's training session on Saturday at the BCA Stadium, Vadodara.
Following the incident, the BCCI confirmed that Pant underwent scans, which diagnosed him with a side strain (Oblique Muscle Tear), leading to his exclusion from the series.
"An MRI was conducted promptly, and the BCCI Medical Team conferred with a specialist regarding his clinical and radiological findings.
Pant has been diagnosed with a side strain (Oblique Muscle Tear) and is therefore ruled out of the ODI series," stated the BCCI.
Consequently, "the Men’s Selection Committee has appointed Dhruv Jurel as Pant’s substitute, and Jurel has joined the squad," it stated.
Currently captaining Uttar Pradesh in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, Jurel stands as the state's leading scorer with 558 runs in seven matches, averaging over 90. He has amassed two centuries and four half-centuries across his seven innings in VHT 2025-26.
Pant is anticipated to take several days off before reporting to the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru for further evaluation and rehabilitation.
He entered the ODI series following a strong performance leading Delhi in the 2025/26 Vijay Hazare Trophy league stage in Bengaluru, where he scored two half-centuries against Services and Railways, aiding Delhi's progression to the knockouts.
This marks the second time Pant has been hindered by injuries, following a fractured right foot during the fourth Test against England in Manchester, after which he returned to action in a two-match Test series against South Africa at home last November.
The ODI series against New Zealand is set to commence at the Baroda Cricket Association Stadium (BCA) in Kotambi, Vadodara, marking the venue's inaugural hosting of a men’s international match.
India's updated ODI squad includes: Shubman Gill (C), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul (WK), Shreyas Iyer (VC), Washington Sundar, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohd Siraj, Harshit Rana, Prasidh Krishna, Kuldeep Yadav, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Arshdeep Singh, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Dhruv Jurel (WK).
Point of View
The injury to Rishabh Pant is a significant setback for the Indian cricket team. His replacement, Dhruv Jurel, presents a promising option, especially given his recent performances. The team's ability to adapt and perform under pressure will be crucial as they face New Zealand.
NationPress
22/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused Rishabh Pant's injury?
Rishabh Pant suffered a right side strain injury while batting in the nets during a practice session.
Who is Dhruv Jurel?
Dhruv Jurel is a talented wicketkeeper-batter who is currently captaining Uttar Pradesh in the Vijay Hazare Trophy.
What are Jurel's recent performances?
Jurel has scored 558 runs in seven matches of the Vijay Hazare Trophy, averaging over 90 with two centuries and four half-centuries.
When does the ODI series against New Zealand start?
The ODI series against New Zealand will commence at the Baroda Cricket Association Stadium in Vadodara.
What is Pant's expected recovery time?
Pant is expected to rest for several days before beginning rehabilitation at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru.
