"Papa, I Can’t Do It": Dhruv Jurel Reflects on the Moment He Almost Quit Cricket
Dhruv Jurel, Rajasthan Royals’ young wicketkeeper-batter, has been a standout performer in IPL 2025, scoring 106 runs in three matches with an impressive strike rate of 151.42. His journey into cricket has been inspiring, as he overcame significant challenges to reach this stage. In a recent interaction with AB de Villiers on the “AB de Villiers 360” YouTube channel, Jurel shared how he once considered quitting cricket due to a lack of opportunities. He revealed that his father, a Kargil War veteran, motivated him during this tough phase by recounting his own struggles in the Indian Army. His father’s words—encouraging perseverance and resilience—helped Jurel regain focus and eventually secure a spot in India’s Under-19 team as vice-captain for the 2020 World Cup.
Jurel’s career trajectory has been remarkable. Initially aiming to join the Indian Army, he transitioned into cricket and made his first-class debut in 2022. Rajasthan Royals picked him for IPL 2020, but he debuted in 2023, showcasing his finishing abilities with impactful performances. By IPL 2024, he had cemented his role in the team and earned an international debut against England. Retained by RR for ₹14 crore ahead of IPL 2025, Jurel continues to shine as a key player for the franchise.