Dhruv Jurel, the batter who has been one of the big finds for Rajasthan Royals (RR) this season, said he had been motivated by the presence of MS Dhoni, Chennai Super Kings captain and India legend, behind the stumps during his game-changing knock in Jaipur on Aoril 27. Jurel, who has been given the responsibility of playing the enforcer’s role in the middle order, played another exciting cameo of 34 runs off just 15 deliveries, including three fours and two sixes, at a remarkable strike-rate of 226.67.
His impressive knock, and 48-run stand with Devdutt Padikkal, was crucial in helping Rajasthan to amass a total of 202-5 in their allotted 20 overs – the biggest score in IPL history at the Sawai Man Singh Stadium. During the post-match press conference, Jurel shared his thoughts on what it meant to share the field with Dhoni.
“I am fortunate enough to share the same field with Dhoni sir,” he said. “I have been seeing him playing since I was a child. I don’t feel any pressure. On the other hand, it serves as motivation. I am motivated knowing that he is standing behind me and watching me. That is enough for me.”
Rajasthan, playing their 200th IPL match, went on to win by 32 runs, a result that put them back on top of the table.