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After weeks of intense cricketing action, the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2025 has entered its final leg. In the fifth and final Test of the series, Team India will be aiming to level the contest 2-2 after securing a hard-fought draw in the previous match. However, a major concern looms over the Indian camp: who will replace wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant, who sustained a painful blow to his foot in the last Test, ruling him out of action for several weeks.
Two talented wicketkeepers with proven brilliance
Two players in contention for the wicketkeeper’s role in the Oval Test are Dhruv Jurel and N Jagadeesan. Jurel, who has already featured in the series, impressed with his glovework in the first two Tests. Meanwhile, Jagadeesan, named as Pant’s replacement, has displayed flashes of brilliance in domestic cricket. Let’s explore their credentials in three key points who will be a batter choice for the fifth Test.
Dhruv Jurel vs N Jagadeesan: Who should play the fifth Test?
1. Experience and Recent Form
- Dhruv Jurel: Jurel is young but has already made a mark in his brief Test career. He was named Player of the Match in Ranchi against England, showing remarkable composure under pressure. His performances in IPL 2024 and 2025 further highlighted his growth, with sharp glovework and mature finishing. While his overall first-class stats aren’t as prolific, he has shown the ability to deliver in crunch moments for India.
- N Jagadeesan: The Tamil Nadu wicketkeeper is among the most consistent performers in domestic cricket. He scored 816 runs at 74.18 in the Ranji Trophy 2024–25, followed by 674 runs at 56.16 the previous season. With a first-class average of 47.50 and 10 centuries in 52 matches, Jagadeesan brings strong numbers but lacks international exposure and has yet to keep wickets in Test cricket.
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2. Suitability for the Occasion
- Dhruv Jurel: Jurel has already kept wickets in the ongoing series, gaining valuable experience and developing chemistry with the bowlers. His understanding of English conditions and the opposition adds to his readiness. His calmness under pressure and familiarity with the squad make him a strong contender for the high-stakes Oval Test.
- N Jagadeesan: Jagadeesan’s form in domestic cricket is undeniable, but transitioning to Test match intensity, especially in challenging English conditions, will be a big test. While his glovework is considered solid, his ability to handle pressure at the international level remains unproven.
3. Conclusion
- Dhruv Jurel: Given his recent contributions and experience during the tour, Jurel appears to be the safer and more logical pick for the fifth Test. He offers team continuity, understands the current strategies, and is already integrated into the setup—qualities vital in a decisive match.
- N Jagadeesan: Jagadeesan certainly has the talent and numbers to succeed in the future, but throwing him into a series decider without prior Test experience could be a gamble. A more gradual introduction to international cricket might serve him and the team better.
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