Dhruv Jurel is settling into his new role at No. 3 with growing confidence, but the Rajasthan Royals wicketkeeper-batter played down the significance of the position after another standout display helped his side maintain momentum in the chase. Coming in when Rajasthan were 21/1 in the second over of a 202-run pursuit, Jurel steadied the innings and then finished with authority, remaining unbeaten on 43 off 43 balls to steer the Royals to a comfortable win over defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru in just 18 overs. The result extended Rajasthan’s unbeaten run to four matches.
Jurel on batting at No. 3 and being ready anywhere
Speaking after the match on Friday, Jurel said his promotion to the middle order is simply another job to do, rather than a personal milestone. He pointed out that he had batted at No. 5 or 6 last year and stressed that the main objective is always to win. Jurel also explained that he is not attached to any specific batting slot, adding that he would contribute regardless of where the team asks him to play, even if it means striking the winning six.
He also acknowledged the difficulty of the No. 3 position, especially given the explosive starts delivered by Yashasvi Jaiswal and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, and the presence of Shimron Hetmyer—an established power-hitter—right after him in the batting order. Even with those factors, Jurel insisted he has been able to meet expectations, highlighted by his recent form.
- Jurel has produced two fifties this season, including a career-best unbeaten 81.
- He said batting order numbers are “just a number” and he will happily play wherever required.
Rajasthan’s top order dominance
Rajasthan’s success in the current campaign has been driven heavily by their first three batters, who collectively lead the run-scoring chart for the franchise this season. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi tops the list with 200 runs, followed by Jaiswal on 183 and Jurel on 176. The trio’s impact has made the Royals’ chases and totals more formidable, and the latest match underlined that trend.
Sooryavanshi’s start and the chase turning decisive
Sooryavanshi set the tone again with a rapid assault that took the chase away from Bengaluru during the power play. His 78 came off just 26 balls, turning the pursuit into a one-sided affair almost immediately.
- Jurel walked in early, with Rajasthan placed at 21/1 in the second over while chasing 202.
- Sooryavanshi produced a blistering power play, smashing 78 off 26 deliveries and giving the innings momentum.
- After five overs, the Royals were around 65–70 (73) runs, keeping the chase under control.
- The sixth over proved pivotal as Abhinandan Singh bowled to Jurel, and the wicketkeeper-batter said he told himself to “cash in” during the over.
- That over brought a 24-run haul for Rajasthan, including two fours and two sixes.
- Jurel described how the confidence of seeing Sooryavanshi and Vaibhav’s batting helps him settle, and how he also feels pressure to match the pace when the set batter is going well.
- Jurel’s mindset was to convert the early advantage into completion: when Vaibhav was dismissed, the required run rate had dropped to about 6–7.
Jurel further reflected on the support system within the batting unit, noting that when he bats at No. 3, the way Sooryavanshi goes about his work can make the situation appear easier. He also spoke about the relief that comes once the first boundary is found, and he said the chase was already well positioned by the time Vaibhav was out.
Jadeja’s role after switching franchises
Rajasthan’s batting also looked deep and well-constructed, with experienced all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja slotted at No. 6 following his move from Chennai Super Kings. Jurel praised Jadeja’s international consistency and said that having him around brings experience and makes batting feel simpler through guidance and conversation.
Rajasthan’s bowling: Bishnoi leads the wicket-takers
With the bat setting up the chase, Rajasthan’s bowling then ensured Bengaluru could not mount a sustained challenge. In the bowling department, wrist spinner Ravi Bishnoi has been outstanding, topping the wicket charts for the season. Across four matches, he has taken nine wickets at an average of 12.66.
Bishnoi delivered a sharp spell in this game as well, finishing with figures of 2/32. His standout moment came in the power play when he dismissed Virat Kohli, a scalp that swung attention quickly towards Rajasthan’s control of the contest. Jurel said their familiarity dates back to their Under-19 days, and he believes that shared understanding helps both in the middle overs where wickets are especially valuable.
Jurel closed by describing Bishnoi as a consistent performer and a strong character, adding that Bishnoi listens to him when he advises from behind the stumps. He suggested that having the keeper and the bowler aligned on the same plans makes the partnership smoother and more effective.
